What are clinical trials?
A clinical trial in cancer treatment is a research study that tests new treatments, drugs, or medical devices to find out if they are safe and effective for people with cancer. These trials are essential for advancing medical knowledge and improving cancer care.
Clinical trials typically follow a set process known as phases:
Phase I: Tests a new treatment or drug for the first time on a small group of people to evaluate its safety, dosage, and side effects.
Phase II: Involves a larger group of patients to further assess the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.
Phase III: Compares the new treatment with the current standard treatment to see if it works better or has fewer side effects.
Phase IV: Occurs after the treatment has been approved and is being used in the general population, to monitor long-term effects and benefits.
Clinical trials can involve different types of treatments, including new chemotherapy drugs, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and even experimental procedures. Patients who participate in clinical trials may benefit from access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet widely available, but it also involves the potential risk of unknown side effects.
Clinical trials are often an important option for patients whose cancer has not responded to standard treatments, or when no other treatment options are available. Participation is voluntary, and patients are closely monitored throughout the trial to ensure their safety.
