October 18, 2016
Why Participate in a Clinical Trial?
Today’s standard treatments first began as yesterday’s clinical trials. If an investigational therapy tested in a clinical trial is helpful, you may be among the first to benefit. Taking part in a research study gives you access to new drugs and interventions before they are widely available.
Benefits of Participating in a Clinical Trial
- Standard treatment offers little chance of cure or long-lasting remission
- No standard of care exists
- Standard treatment is highly toxic or standard treatment will likely result in serious long-term or late effects
- Rare type of brain tumor
- Previous treatments failed to work
- Patients have access to new treatments before being widely introduced
- Prevent recurrence of disease
- Playing an active role in the patient’s health care
- Patients receive expert care at leading medical institutions
- Patients play a valuable role in medical research with the potential to help other patients facing similar health challenges
Risks of Participating in a Clinical Trial
- There is the potential for side effects that may be unpleasant, serious or even life-threatening.
- The treatment may not be effective or produce the desired result.
- Participation in a trial may involve a greater time commitment than pursuing non-trial treatment.
Brain Tumor Clinical Trials
If you have just found out that you have a brain tumor or your tumor has recurred, research all the available treatment options – including clinical trials – before making any treatment decisions.