A clinical trial is research into the possible benefits and drawbacks of a new test or treatment. Clinical trials extend knowledge and improve treatment and care, now and for future patients. Doctors use the results of earlier clinical trials when they advise you now. So you, and other patients, benefit from past research.
Examples of clinical trials
- A new test is developed but hasn't been used on patients. This may be a new blood test or scan used to diagnose an illness or monitor the progress of treatment.
- A new treatment is compared with an older, accepted treatment to find out which is better. In cancer this may mean comparing drugs, radiotherapy or different operations.
- A study to discover if the treatment is being given in the most effective way? For example, comparing how frequently drugs are given - once a week, once a month or continuously.
- A new method of care needs to be assessed. This may be a way to relieve symptoms, such as pain, nausea or shortness of breath. The researcher may want to discover ways to provide support by finding out how treatment affects your everyday life and activities.