STAT+: ADA review of members’ expulsion denies group censored opinions, called in police

Almost three months after five members of the American Diabetes Association were ejected from the group’s scientific sessions in New Orleans for handing out an editorial criticizing federal funding cuts, an internal review has rejected claims of silencing protest and involving local police. The findings from a five-person committee selected by ADA were described in a press release issued Tuesday evening. The review is being sent to the ADA board for action, STAT has learned, but it appears unlikely to quiet controversy that has persisted since June 5. The review dismissed suggestions that the organization acted in reaction to the substance of an April 29 commentary, published in its Diabetes Care journal, and distributed outside the hall where the National Institutes of Health director was scheduled to speak. Instead, it concluded that the action was spurred by behavior of people handing out the document – saying they violated a code of conduct for conference attendees that prohibits distribution of printed materials in certain areas. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe