5 things to know about Clinical Trials
5 things to know about Clinical Trials By The Lifesciences Magazine Volunteering for a clinical study is a meaningful opportunity for individuals with cancer or other severe illnesses to help shape the future of medicine. Clinical trials are research studies that assist medical professionals and scientists learn more about how to detect, diagnose, and treat illness. Over time, the insights gleaned through clinical trials may help elevate the standard of care provided to patients. Today, we have a variety of medicines that may cure or postpone the growth of cancer for many years owing to patients who volunteered for trials. Through clinical studies, we’ve also improved our understanding of how to alleviate cancer-related symptoms. Anne Schott, M.D., associate director for clinical research at the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, suggests that patients consider enrolling in clinical trials for two reasons: (1) to gain access to study treatment, and (2) to contribut...