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Article History

Received: 28 November 2024

Accepted: 12 May 2025

First Online: 24 May 2025

Declarations

:

: Ethical approvals were obtained from the Internal Review Board (IRB) of icddr, b, consisting of the Research Review Committee (RRC) and Ethical Review Committee (ERC) (protocol no: PR-22136; Version 1.0). The ERC at icddr, b ensures that all research involving human participants meets rigorous international ethical standards. Drawing on international ethical frameworks such as the Declaration of Helsinki and CIOMS guidelines, the ERB emphasizes fundamental principles, including respect for individuals, beneficence, and justice. With a diverse membership that includes multidisciplinary experts and community representatives, the ERB provides researchers with ethical training and guidance, fostering responsible and inclusive research practices, particularly in vulnerable populations. The study received approval from the school’s Directorate General (DG). Written informed consent was obtained from the legal guardians of participants under 16. Additionally, participants under the age of 18 provided written assent before enrollment. The study adhered to all ethical considerations to ensure participant confidentiality and compliance with international ethical standards.

: The authors declare no competing interests.