What Is a Clinical Trial?

The intent of a clinical trial is to look for new and better ways to prevent, detect, diagnose or treat a disease. Many trials look at the effect and safety of a treatment. Some look at the link between risk factors and disease. Other trials may look at tissues or blood to learn about a disease, or use surveys to learn how a disease affects daily living. Lastly, there are trials that look for ways to improve the comfort and quality of life of people with a disease.

You can drop out of a clinical trial at any time for any reason.

• Types of Clinical Trials


• The Pros and Cons of Participating


• Frequently Asked Questions


• Questions to Ask Your Doctor


• How to find clinical trials at Holden


• How to Find Clinical Trials at Other Institutions
  
  You can search for cancer clinical trials at these web sites:
  • State of Iowa Clinical Trials
  • National Cancer Institute
  • ClinicalTrials.gov
  • CenterWatch Blood and Marrow Cancers Clinical Trials
  • CenterWatch Solid Tumor Clinical Trials

If you need assistance, the Cancer Information Service staff at the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center will run a search for you. Their nationwide toll-free number is 1-800-237-1225.