Clinical Trials: What They Are and Why They Matter
When you’re navigating a cancer diagnosis, every decision, from treatment choices to lifestyle changes, can feel overwhelming. Somewhere in those conversations, you might hear about clinical trials. But what does that really mean? And should you or a loved one consider one?
Let’s take a closer look at what clinical trials are, clear up some common misunderstandings, and explore how they shape the future of cancer care.
Myths vs. Facts About Clinical Trials
Myth #1: Clinical trials are only for people who’ve run out of options.
Fact: Many trials are available for patients at all stages of diagnosis, including early-stage cancers or even post-treatment survivorship care. Some involve testing new combinations of existing therapies, while others focus on prevention, symptom management, or improving quality of life.
Myth #2: You might end up getting a placebo instead of real treatment.
Fact: In cancer clinical trials, patients almost never receive “no treatment.” If a placebo is used, it’s given alongside the standard of care. The goal is never to deny care but to improve upon what's already available.
Myth #3: Clinical trials are risky.
Fact: Every clinical trial must go through strict safety and ethical reviews before enrolling participants. Patients are closely monitored throughout the process, and you always have the right to stop participating at any time.
Myth #4: It’s too complicated to understand.
Fact: While the science behind clinical trials is complex, the decision-making process doesn't have to be. Asking the right questions and working with trusted providers can help you decide if a trial is a good fit for your care plan.
What Questions to Ask Your Doctor
If you’re curious about clinical trials, it’s a great idea to bring it up with your care team. You don’t need to have all the answers, just asking is a powerful first step.
Here are a few questions to consider:
Are there any clinical trials available for my type and stage of cancer?
What is the goal of this trial? (Is it testing treatment, prevention, or symptom support?)
What would participation involve for me on a daily or weekly basis?
How might this trial affect my current treatment plan?
What are the potential benefits or risks?
Will I need to travel to a different location to participate?
Being well-informed helps you feel empowered in your care, even if you decide that a trial isn’t the right path for you.
How Clinical Trials Pave the Way for Progress
Every cancer treatment that exists today, from chemotherapy to immunotherapy, started as a research idea. It took patients, doctors, researchers, and years of careful testing to bring those therapies to life.
By participating in or supporting clinical trials, you’re helping to:
Advance science that may improve treatment outcomes
Give future patients more options
Expand knowledge around rare or hard-to-treat cancers
Contribute to research that considers real-world needs, including side effect management, quality of life, and survivorship
One Step at a Time
Choosing a treatment path is deeply personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you’re exploring clinical trials, know that you’re not alone. There’s support, guidance, and hope, every step of the way.
To explore clinical trials in your area or specific to your cancer type, we recommend visiting:
National Cancer Institute’s Clinical Trials Search
Your cancer center’s patient resource department