Policy Statement Informed Consent

Consent for Publication: Participants involved in studies have the right to decide how their personal data, photographs, or any statements made during interviews or studies are used. This includes control over what happens to the information they provide and any visual material captured.

Written informed consent must be obtained from all individuals whose images, personal details, or videos are to be published. If the participant is under 16 years of age, consent must be obtained from a parent or legal guardian. A clear statement regarding consent must be included in the manuscript.

In cases where the participant is deceased, written consent must be provided by a family member or legal representative.

Authors must be prepared to provide the signed consent form to the Editor upon request.

If the manuscript contains unidentifiable images and does not include any personal details that could identify the individuals, then written consent for publication may not be required.

The final decision regarding whether consent for publication is necessary lies with the Editor.