General Cancer Information

Clinical Trials

Doctors all over the country conduct many types of clinical trials (research studies in which people take part voluntarily). These include studies of ways to prevent, detect, diagnose and treat cancer; studies of the psychological effects of the disease; and studies of ways to improve comfort and quality of life.

People who take part in clinical trials have the first chance to benefit from new approaches. They also make important contributions to medical science. Although clinical trials may pose some risks, researchers take very careful steps to protect people who take part.

People who are interested in being part of a clinical trial should talk with their doctor. They may want to read the National Cancer Institute booklets, "Taking Part in Clinical Trials: What Cancer Patients Need To Know" and "Taking Part in Clinical Trials: Cancer Prevention Studies," which describe how research studies are carried out and explain their possible benefits and risks.

The National Cancer Institute Web site at www.cancer.gov provides general information about clinical trials. It also offers detailed information about specific ongoing studies by linking to PDQ®, a cancer information database developed by the National Cancer Institute. In addition to information about clinical trials, PDQ contains current information on cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and supportive care.