What is a Clinical Trial?
A clinical trial is a medical research study. Cancer clinical trials are specifically designed to answer specific scientific questions that can improve the treatment and care of people with cancer. Trials are conducted for a variety of reasons, including to:
- Test new and better ways to prevent, screen, diagnose or treat cancer
- Test an existing cancer treatment on a different type of cancer
- Determine if an investigational therapy or procedure is more effective in treating a particular type of cancer than an existing therapy or procedure
- Understand how to use approved treatments in new combinations for better results
Clinical trials rely on volunteers, referred to as study participants. Every study participant is closely monitored with medical tests and exams before, during and after the clinical trial. Safety is always a top priority, and clinical trials are strictly managed by the FDA. Before a therapy is approved for testing, the FDA ensures that it has gone through strict testing protocols.
WHY ARE CANCER CLINICAL TRIALS IMPORTANT?
Today’s clinical trials result in tomorrow’s treatment options. All of the standard cancer treatments used today are based on previous clinical trial results.
Cancer clinical trials are important because they:
- Provide patients with access to the latest treatment options that are being explored
- Help patients contribute to medical knowledge and progress against cancer, which can improve care
- Provide critical data that can ultimately lead to new FDA-approved therapies for patients that are more effective and/or better tolerated than current treatments
WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF CANCER CLINICAL TRIALS?
The different types of cancer clinical trials include:
- Treatment trials, which test investigational medicines, medical procedures, or combinations of treatments for various types of cancer.
- Prevention trials, which look for better ways to prevent cancer by either doing something (called action studies) such as making lifestyle changes, or taking something (called agent studies), such as medicines or vitamins.
- Screening trials, which look for new ways to test for the presence of cancer, when it may be more easily treated.
- Quality of life trials, which explore ways to improve comfort and quality of life for people with cancer.
WHY SHOULD I PARTICIPATE IN A CLINICAL TRIAL?
Participating in scientific research through a clinical trial has numerous benefits for you. It can:
- Provide access to the latest treatment options that are being explored
- Allow a more active role in your care
- Contribute to medical knowledge and progress against cancer, which can improve care for patients overall
Today, it is easier than ever to find a clinical trial close to home. Depending on the type of clinical trial you seek, you may have options available in your own community at SCRI at Tennessee Cancer Specialists. That means you won’t have to travel far from your home and community. To learn more about the clinical trials offered at Tennessee Cancer Specialists, use the clinical trial research tool by clicking the button below.
How does Tennessee Cancer Specialists work with SCRI?