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.