Conflicts of interest in science and medicine: the physician's perspective.

The various statements and declarations of the World Medical Association that address conflicts of interest on the part of physicians as (1) researchers, and (2) practitioners, are examined, with particular reference to the October 2000 revision of the Declaration of Helsinki. Recent contributions to the literature, notably on conflicts of interest in medical research, are noted. Finally, key provisions of the American Medical Association's Code of Medical Ethics (2000-2001 Edition) that address the various forms of conflict of interest that can arise in the practice of medicine are outlined.