Research Studies conducted with patients are called clinical trials. As a patient, you may have an opportunity to take part in a clinical trial. This information is written for you, your family and friends, to explain what clinical trials are and to assist you in making or confirming a decision about entering a clinical trial.
The time when a disease or illness is diagnosed or when treatment decisions are being made is very difficult. It is often hard to understand or remember complex medical explanations given to you by your physician. This information is meant to supplement what your doctors tell you. It provides many answers to questions most commonly asked about clinical trials.
We hope this information will help to explain how clinical studies are designed and carried out. Of course, there are good treatments and good care for patients whether they take part in clinical trials or receive standard treatments. You may decide not to take part in a trial, and still receive good medical care. The decision to participate in a clinical trial is always up to you. |
