Alcohol industry involvement in research: exploring current norms and policies around in-kind contributions using a recent case study

Citation

Mitchell G, Boniface S, Carters-White L, Fabbri A, van Schalkwyk M, Martin JG & Fitzgerald N (2023) Alcohol industry involvement in research: exploring current norms and policies around in-kind contributions using a recent case study. UK Prevention Research Conference, Edinburgh, 14.11.2023-15.11.2023.

Abstract
Background: There is a growing body of evidence that unhealthy commodity industries, such as alcohol, tobacco and gambling, use a ‘playbook’ of activities to prevent the implementation of evidence-based policies that conflict with commercial interests. One such activity is involvement in science, including alcohol industry involvement in prevention science. Although alcohol industry-funded research groups appear to have reduced in number, the industry may fund research in other ways, including via in-kind contributions. Aims: To examine current norms, policies, and views regarding industry in-kind contributions to unhealthy commodity research, through exploration of a recent case study involving two major alcohol companies. Methods: Semi-structured interviews with authors, journal editors, collaborators of the research team, and other relevant experts will be conducted (n~15-20). Desk-based investigations include comprehensive analysis of journal declaration of interest policies and other available written correspondence, and detailed examination of the research papers, including qualitative analysis of declarations over time. Results: We will provide a detailed timeline of the case study and explore how and why these events took place. Views of various stakeholders involved will be explored, including on the potential impact of industry funding on science, particularly through in-kind contributions. A theory of change will be developed, to map out pathways to impact (positive or negative) of the arrangement in this case and points of intervention to maximise transparency or benefit public health. Conclusions: We will identify what changes to policy or intervention(s) could minimise risks for public health for any similar arrangements in future.