Why You May Want to Participate
Medical research finds ways to help people live longer, improve their quality of life, and manage or cure disease. This is possible because of the people who volunteer to participate in clinical trials. At The University of Kansas Cancer Center, we strive to provide the most advanced care possible. In addition to standard care and treatments, we perform studies to help find better ways of preventing, diagnosing and treating various types of cancer.
Benefits
By participating in a clinical trial, you have access to potentially effective treatments not available elsewhere. Additionally, you will contribute to cancer research, which can help other cancer patients in the future.
Drawbacks
Treatments offered through clinical trials aren’t always better than the standard treatments. Also, as a study participant, you may be required to visit the doctor more often than you would with standard treatment. And you may have more blood drawn for laboratory tests.
Some health insurance plans may not cover all care costs involved. Before you join a study, check with your insurance provider to see what is covered.
Safety Monitoring
All clinical trials are guided by strict rules that are monitored by the federal Office for Human Research Protections and the Food and Drug Administration. Before it can begin, each clinical trial is approved by an institutional review board, made up of medical specialists, nurses and other professionals. As your advocate, the IRB will only approve research that tries to answer medically important questions in a scientific and responsible way.
Who Can Participate
Each clinical trial has its own eligibility requirements. Criteria include factors such as your age, gender, type and stage of disease, previous treatment history and other medical conditions.
How Care Is Provided
Care for patients in clinical trials is provided in the same way standard treatment is provided. Your physicians, nurses and other professionals will care for you, keep you informed about your treatment and measure your progress. To ensure reliable results, it’s important for you to follow the care team’s instructions.
Informed Consent
Participation in clinical research is voluntary. Before you join a clinical trial, a member of the research team will meet with you to review eligibility, risks, benefits and details of care and treatment.
You will receive a consent form that explains the study. Before signing the form, carefully read it, ask questions and make sure you understand it. You are free at any time to change your mind and withdraw from the study.
Find a clinical trial for you.