Clinical Trials
What is a clinical trial?
It is a method of closely monitoring the introduction
of new treatments.
When a new treatment is given to patients for the first time, we need
to find out its true benefits as well as any potential harm, which could
occur. We need to prove whether the treatment is really as good as we
hope it might be.
Cancer patients are often asked to take part in clinical trials, because
research is providing new exciting options all the time. A trial may
involve testing a brand new drug, radiotherapy schedule, operation technique
or a combination of treatments.
Every trial is different, so it is important that you understand clearly
the aims, potential benefits and risks involved if you take part in
a trial.
Support for Clinical Trials
Cancer in Scotland highlighted that there is a large
amount of evidence, supporting the concept that entry in a clinical
trial enhances patient outcome - even if those patients are in ‘standard’
arms of such studies. This is true of trials of all common modalities
of therapy and in numerous types of cancer. The precise cause of this
effect is not known but it is a powerful incentive to widen access to
such trials.
In March 2003 the Scottish Cancer Group approved Regional Cancer Research
Plans. The West of Scotland Cancer Research Network is now under development.
It is anticipated that staff will be appointed within the acute hospitals
throughout Lanarkshire thus enabling patient’s to participate
in Clinical Trials locally.
Scottish Cancer Research Network (SCRN)
The Scottish Cancer Research Network (SCRN) was established in 2003
to fulfil directives set by the Scottish Executive to promote and increase
recruitment in cancer clinical trials. Click here
for Information leaflet.
Clinical Trials: Resources
THE BEATSON ONCOLOGY CENTRE, GLASGOW
The Beatson Oncology Centre is the lead centre for the delivery
of non-surgical cancer care for the West of Scotland. Among the many
services provided in the treatment of cancer, the Beatson is the centre
for clinical trials in the West of Scotland. Please
visit the link below to find out more about clinical trials at the Beatson
Oncology Centre.
| Clinical
Trials at the Beatson Oncology Centre |
CANCER BACUP
If you are considering trying to become involved in clinical
trials please talk the idea over with your doctor who can give you the
best advice on what is available and what may be suitable to your own
situation.
Further information on clinical trials is available from Cancer Bacup's
online booklet "Understanding Clinical Trials"
which is available through the link below.
| Understanding
Clinical Trials |
