IRBMED requires continuing review for studies involving human genetic analysis, because the likelihood of re-identification based on genetic information, as well as the regulations and commonly accepted standards regarding confidentiality of genetic information, may require re-evaluation over the course of a study.
U-M IRBs are responsible for evaluating the risks of a research study, weighing the probability of each risk coming to pass, and assessing the magnitude of harm that may result. Harm to research participants and their families based on genetic information can be both higher probability and higher magnitude than most other kinds of personally identifiable information, so genetic analysis studies may be considered to pose greater than minimal risk even when physical and/or psychological risks are minimal.