How To Find A Clinical Trial

What Is A Clinical Trial?

According to the National Institutes of Health, a clinical trial (also clinical research) is a research study in human volunteers to answer specific health questions. Carefully conducted clinical trials are the fastest and safest way to find treatments that work in people and ways to improve health.

Interventional trials determine whether experimental treatments or new ways of using known therapies are safe and effective under controlled environments. Observational trials address health issues in large groups of people or populations in natural settings.

Why Participate In A Clinical Trial?

Participants in clinical trials can play a more active role in their own health care, gain access to new research treatments before they are widely available, and help others by contributing to medical research.

Who Can Participate In A Clinical Trial?

All clinical trials have guidelines about who can participate. Criteria is based on such factors as age, gender, the type and stage of a disease, previous treatment history, and other medical conditions. Before joining a clinical trial, a participant must qualify for the study. Some research studies seek participants with illnesses or conditions to be studied in the clinical trial, while others need healthy participants. The criteria is used to identify appropriate participants and keep them safe.

How Can I Find Out If There's A Clinical Trial For Me?

You can search for a clinical trial through the National Cancer Institute by clicking here. To learn more about the clinical trial Dr. Hassenbusch participated in, click here.