Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use Policy
In recognition of the growing impact of technological advancements on scholarly publishing, Forbes Journal of Medicine has adopted a formal policy regulating the ethical and transparent use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools. This policy applies to all stakeholders in the publication process—including authors, reviewers, and editors—and is grounded in the principles of international ethical organizations such as COPE, ICMJE, and WAME.
Scope of AI Technologies and Potential Risks
Generative AI tools—including large language models (LLMs), chatbots, image generators, and code-writing systems—may be used to create text, visuals, data, and similar outputs. When used responsibly, these tools can support efficiency and innovation. However, unregulated or inappropriate use may lead to:
• Factual inaccuracies
• Fabricated citations
• Risks of plagiarism
• Compromise of research integrity
Principles for Authors
• Authors must disclose the use of any AI tool in a clear and transparent manner.
• The disclosure must appear both in the cover letter and within the manu (e.g., Methods or Acknowledgments sections), specifying the tool used, the purpose of use, and how its output was verified.
• AI tools cannot be credited as authors; full responsibility for the originality, accuracy, and ethical integrity of the manuscript lies with the human authors.
• Authors are responsible for verifying all AI-generated content, checking citations, and ensuring that no plagiarized or fabricated material is included.
• Manipulated visuals that distort scientific reality, synthetic data generation, or methodologically unsupported use of AI constitute ethical misconduct and will not be accepted for publication.
Principles for Reviewers
• Reviewers must preserve the confidentiality of the manuscripts they evaluate and must not upload any manuscript content to AI platforms.
• Fully automated reviews using AI tools are prohibited due to concerns related to data security and intellectual property.
• Reviewers may use AI tools solely for limited purposes such as language polishing or translation. In such cases, AI use must be explicitly stated in the review report.
• If reviewers suspect inappropriate or undisclosed AI use by authors, they must inform the editor.
Principles for Editors
• Editors are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of manuscripts and reviewer reports; these materials must never be processed in AI systems.
• Editorial decisions are made solely through human judgment.
• Editors may use AI tools only in limited, non-decisive workflows that do not compromise scientific integrity (e.g., identifying potential reviewers).
• When signs of inappropriate AI use are detected, editors must initiate an inquiry and act in accordance with this policy.
Forbes Journal of Medicine is committed to safeguarding research integrity and publication ethics while monitoring technological developments and updating this policy framework as necessary in line with responsible innovation.