What is a cancer clinical study?

A clinical study is a research study that tests how well a new medical approach works in people, and how well it is tolerated. Clinical studies are also known as “clinical trials”. Their aim is to find different or better ways to treat or prevent disease.

Cancer clinical studies are designed to evaluate particular aspects of treatment (such as stopping cancer coming back, or level of side effects) in people who are affected by cancer.

People who take part in cancer clinical studies are often able to gain access to new treatment before it is generally available, as well as make a valuable contribution to medical progress for the benefit of all.

Cancer Clinical studies follow strict rules

Cancer clinical studies are usually conducted in a series of steps called Phases.They may be sponsored by various organizations, including government health services, institutions, foundations or pharmaceutical companies.

All studies are conducted according to strict scientific and ethical principles. They must be approved by an independent ethics committee before they are allowed to go ahead. Each study has a protocol, or set of rules, which details exactly what will be done, how, when and why.

This protocol also has guidelines, called “eligibility criteria”, on who can and cannot take part in the study. The criteria are based on patients’ medical condition, overall health status, medical history, and other important factors. People who do not meet these strict criteria will not be allowed to take part in the study.

Participation in a clinical trial is voluntary. You cannot be put in to a clinical trial without your specific agreement. Eligible patients who wish to take part are required to sign an “informed consent” agreement, showing that they understand what is involved before taking part. The study team will explain all of the details of the study to you before you sign this form.

Next: Cancer clinical studies: what you should know before participating