A comprehensive review of data sharing practices in addiction research: Trends, challenges, and future directions

Aim: To evaluate the current state of data sharing practices in addiction medicine (AM) research, focusing on data sharing statements (DSS). Background: Data sharing is essential for transparency and reproducibility, yet its adoption in AM research remains unclear. Measurement: We reviewed articles from the top 10 AM journals (2018–2023). Data were extracted using a standardized form. Logistic regression, latent class analysis, and thematic analysis were conducted to examine factors associated with DSS inclusion. Authors were also contacted to assess willingness to share data. Findings: Only 22.75 % of articles included a DSS, though this rose to 52 % by 2023. DSS inclusion was higher in clinical trials than cohort studies (24.49 % vs. 16.59 %), and more common in open access articles (24.36 %) than non-open access ones (19.55 %). Journals with both journal and publisher “Requires” policies had the highest inclusion rate (43.07 %). Logistic regression confirmed policy alignment as the strongest predictor of DSS presence. Thematic analysis showed most DSS offered conditional access (74.14 %), with few using public repositories (12.07 %). Among authors contacted, 62 % were willing to share data, though many imposed conditions related to ethics, privacy, or resource limitations. Conclusion: The implementation of DSS is increasing in AM research, but most indicate restricted access. Additionally, journal and publisher policies play a crucial role in promoting data sharing. Efforts to address the barriers to data sharing and use of open data repositories are needed to improve addiction research.