What does the "timely" requirement refer to in the context of posting results for discontinued clinical trials?

The "timely" requirement in the context of posting results for discontinued clinical trials refers to the expectation that results should be made publicly available within one year of the trial's discontinuation. This is an important aspect of transparency in clinical research, as it ensures that stakeholders, including patients, healthcare providers, and the scientific community, have access to information regarding the outcomes of trials, even if they were not completed.

Publishing results within this timeframe supports the ethical obligation of researchers and sponsors to share knowledge, mitigates the risk of publication bias, and contributes to the body of evidence that guides clinical decision-making. It reflects a commitment to accountability and reinforces public trust in the clinical research enterprise.

The other choices do not align with established guidelines for reporting on discontinued trials. Immediate publication may not be feasible due to data analysis requirements, and the option to keep results confidential does not support the principle of transparency. Additionally, making results optional would undermine the commitment to share information that is vital for informed healthcare decisions.