Good Practice for Conference Abstracts and Presentations (GPCAP) recommendations: 2026 update

INTRODUCTION: The first iteration of Good Practice for Conference Abstracts and Presentations (GPCAP), published in 2019, set the baseline for general recommendations and expectations for scientific conference abstracts and presentations. While individual conference guidelines must be followed, these recommendations aim to provide principles and best practice for pharmaceutical company-sponsored research. The purpose of conferences is the prompt communication of new data for dissemination and discussion within the context of short deadlines and relevant audiences. These updated recommendations aim to provide support for all individuals with a vested interest in the communication of scientific data at conferences. PURPOSE: To provide principles and best practice covering the preparation and presentation of pharmaceutical-supported conference material. Feedback from the previous iteration, interviews with experts, and general revisions have been incorporated into these updated recommendations, aligning with Good Publication Practice (GPP) 2022. RESULTS: New sections have been added to cover topics that have risen in prominence since the first iteration: patient engagement, accessibility, and inclusivity; artificial intelligence; and enhanced content. Other sections cover authorship, copyright, citations, and encores, and have been updated accordingly. CONCLUSION: Conferences remain the key arena for communication and discussion of scientific data in real time as new developments within the scientific field continue to evolve rapidly. These updated recommendations provide principle-based, practical, insights-driven recommendations and suggestions on how to submit and present company-sponsored research with high standards and a commitment to consistency, transparency, and integrity for the scientific community. The aim is to make conferences the best they can be for all interested parties, within the context of pharmaceutical company-sponsored research.