GPs need to know common sources of bias in evidence and information arising from industry-sponsored work so that they can detect bias and minimise its influence on their clinical practice.

Paying attention to communication is an important part of respect for patients, to foster the principles of patient-centred care and shared decision making, and to promote better medical outcomes.

Pharmaceutical industry interactions with professional medical associations have come under scrutiny, yet industry ties among the leadership of these associations are often overlooked.