3 Reasons Why Clinical Trials Are Essential for Cancer Research

Clinical trials for cancer research help both current and future patients. Having enough participants in a clinical trial is an important part of the research process. Understanding how these trials benefit patients is a vital way to get more participants in the trial process.

Cancer research clinical trials may involve the use of new medicines entirely, or they may involve the use of established drugs in new combinations. Cancer trials may also involve different surgical or radiation therapies than what is considered standard for a particular type of cancer.

It is normal to be anxious about the idea of participating in a new or unproven treatment plan. Healthcare providers will not recommend patients for a clinical trial unless they believe the patient is a good fit for the trial. Additionally, patients who participate in clinical trials can expect much closer monitoring of their health and progress than those undergoing standard treatment. This may help alleviate some of the healthcare anxiety that can accompany the decision to participate in a clinical trial.

1. Clinical Trials Help Develop New Treatments

Medicine is constantly evolving, and clinical trials allow researchers to pass along new developments to those in need. It can take years for a treatment to reach the general population at a hospital in a mid-size city. Participants in clinical trials can take pride in the fact that their involvement will eventually allow patients in hospitals of all sizes to receive more effective care.

2. The Use of Clinical Trials Improves Outcomes for All Future Cancer Patients

Clinical trials are responsible for many of the most promising ideas in cancer treatment today. Research has shown that scientists are on the cusp of personalized cancer vaccines, and there is now a simple blood test that can identify 18 types of early-stage cancer. These are just two of the many exciting developments that will have a positive impact on the current and future generations, whether they have been diagnosed with cancer or not.

3. Whether a Trial is Successful or Not, It Helps Steer Future Treatments

Just reaching the clinical trial stage is a long process that requires dedicated research. Once the researcher develops a treatment idea, they must do a thorough literature review to ensure they have a deep understanding of the benefits and risks of their plan.

In vitro studies, which involve treating cells in a laboratory setting, and animal studies are conducted before the researcher can begin to develop their clinical trial plan. This plan is then reviewed by an ethics panel before the researcher gets the green light to seek funding. The entire process is well documented and provides insight for the next generation of researchers.

Managing a clinical trial requires the ability to find and manage quality candidates for the trial. Individual requirements for patients involved in a clinical trial will vary depending on the trial plan design. Easy-to-use software is often used to help streamline organization and make management and communication easier for all parties involved. Patients should speak to their physicians to see if a clinical trial is the best option for their cancer treatment.