DOD Animal Research: Improvements Needed in Quality of Biomedical Research Database.
Abstract
In 1992, congressional concerns were expressed about the lack of disclosure of the Department of Defense's (DOD) animal use programs and activities. In response, DOD began submitting annual reports to the Congress in 1994. In 1995, to respond to continued congressional concerns and direction, DOD established the Biomedical Research Database (BRD) containing information on individual research projects and training programs involving animals being conducted by its laboratories, military hospitals and bases, and contractors. House Report 103499, issued by the House Armed Services Committee in its consideration of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal Year 1995, directed us to examine several issues related to DOD'S administration of its animal research programs. We are examining the extent to which DOD'S research using animals addresses validated military objectives, does not unnecessarily duplicate work done elsewhere, and incorporates methods to reduce, replace, and refine the use of animals. In the course of doing this work, we identified problems with the quality of information in the BRD. The purpose of this report is to bring these problems to your attention. We are continuing our work on the broader issues and will report the results of our review of DOD'S use of animals in research at a later date.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA359441
Entities
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office