Clinical trials
Clinical trials are research studies that look at new ways to prevent, find and treat cancer. They can help us understand cancer better or discover what works best for particular types of cancer or groups of people.
Participating in a clinical trial
When you join a clinical trial, you have the chance to receive a new and promising treatment. This can bring hope if other treatment options do not work or are not available.
Clinical trials are something you volunteer to do, not something you have to do. Learn all that you can before you decide to take part.
Make sure you understand the:
- type of trial
- risks and benefits
- costs and time involved
Find a clinical trial
Clinical trial websites list current trials in different parts of the world. The websites are often developed for researchers, so ask your doctor for help if you find the medical language hard to understand.
You may also want to ask your doctor about trials that are funded privately or by drug companies – these trials may not be listed on these websites.
Please call the Cancer Information Helpline at 1-888-939-3333 for assistance in finding out more about clinical trials.
Types and phases of clinical trials
Understanding the clinical trial and informed consent
Deciding to be in a clinical trial
Enrolling your child in a clinical trial
Clinical trial benefits, risks and costs
When the clinical trial is finished
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