Cancer Clinical Trials Brochure - The University Of Kansas Hospital

Our team of researchers, physiciansand care staff conduct clinical trials totest new treatment options and toimprove care and outcomes for futurecancer patients.Medical research finds ways to help peoplelive longer, improve their quality of life,and manage or cure disease. This ispossible because of the people whovolunteer to participate in clinical trials.At The University of Kansas Cancer Center,we strive to provide the most advancedcare possible. In addition to standard careand treatments, we perform studies to helpfind better ways of preventing, diagnosingand treating various types of cancer.What are clinical trials?Clinical trials test how new medications ortreatments work. Patients who participatehave access to these new drugs andtreatments. By joining a clinical trial, youcan contribute to the medical knowledgethat may improve your cancer care andhelp future patients battle the disease.How are clinical trials monitored for safety?All clinical trials are guided by strict rules that aremonitored by the National Institutes of Health andthe Food and Drug Administration.Before it can begin, each clinical trial is approved byan institutional review board, made up of medicalspecialists, nurses and other professionals. As youradvocate, the IRB will only approve care that tries toanswer medically important questions in a scientificand responsible way.Who can participate in clinical trials?Each clinical trial has its own eligibility requirements.Criteria include factors such as your age,gender, type and stage of disease, previous treatmenthistory and other medical conditions.Will my care be provided in the same way it isfor other patients?Care for patients in clinical trials is provided in thesame way standard treatment is provided. Yourphysicians, nurses and other professionals will carefor you, keep you informed about your treatment andmeasure your progress. To ensure reliable results, it’simportant for you to follow the care team’s instructions.What is informed consent?Participation in clinical research is voluntary. Beforeyou join a clinical trial, a member of the researchteam will meet with you to review eligibility, risks,benefits and details of care and treatment.You will receive a consent form that explainsthe study. Before signing the form, carefullyread it, ask questions and make sure youunderstand it.You are free at any time to change your mindand withdraw from the study.What are the benefits to participation?By participating in a clinical trial, you haveaccess to new treatments not availableelsewhere. You also have access to regular,careful medical attention from a highlyqualified care team. Additionally, you willcontribute to cancer research, which can helpother cancer patients in the future.Are there drawbacks to participation?New treatments aren’t always better than thestandard treatments. Also, as a studyparticipant, you may be required to visit thedoctor more often than you would withstandard treatment. And you may have moreblood drawn for laboratory tests.Some health insurance plans may not coverall care costs involved. Before you join astudy, check with your insurance provider tosee what is covered. Some state and federalprograms help patients pay for care costsassociated with clinical trials.THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS CANCER CENTER