Table 1 Six options for addressing incidental findings (IFs)

Option 1

When obtaining informed consent (IC), the possibility of IFs is not explained at all to the participant.

Option 2

When obtaining IC, the participant is informed that “IFs may be discovered, but will not be explained even if they are found.”

Option 3

When obtaining IC, the participant is informed that “IFs may be discovered, and if the principal investigator (PI) considers them suspect, s/he will notify the participant. However, a specialist (radiologist) does not check the images.”

Option 4

When obtaining IC, the participant is informed that “if IFs are suspected, a specialist (radiologist) will be asked to check the images. If a genuine problem appears to exist, the PI will notify the participant.” The cost for specialist consultation is obtained from the PI’s research funds.

Option 5

When obtaining IC, the participant is informed that “a specialist (radiologist) will check all images to discover IFs. If a genuine problem appears to exist, the PI will notify the participant.” The cost for specialist consultation is obtained from the PI’s research funds.

Option 6

When obtaining IC, the participant is informed that “a clinical device with more precision than that used for research will be initially used to detect IFs. A specialist (radiologist) will check all images, and the PI will notify the participant when a firm diagnosis is established.” The costs for the device and specialist consultation are obtained from the PI’s research funds.