Separate criteria should be drawn up for questionnaire based epidemiological studies

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Abstract
Editor,—Epidemiological surveys based on questionnaires are safe. They are non-invasive, do not involve a hazardous procedure or a controlled trial, and do not breach any medical confidentiality. They may also not involve NHS patients. Nevertheless, it is thought to be good practice to apply to research ethics committees before carrying out such a survey, though non-medical questionnaires are not subject to any scrutiny. We support the view that all questionnaire based studies should be reviewed but do not think that this should be under the current system. …