data monitoring committee (DMC)

A Data Monitoring Committee (DMC) is an independent group that oversees clinical trials to ensure participant safety and the integrity of the study. Throughout the trial, the DMC regularly reviews data on safety and effectiveness. If they identify any serious issues, they can recommend stopping the trial, adjusting protocols, or making other changes. Their goal is to protect participants while ensuring reliable results, helping researchers and regulators make informed decisions about the treatment being studied. This way, ethical standards and scientific rigor are maintained throughout the research process.