 A
clinical trial is a research study to help find treatments that work in people.
They can be in the form of a vaccine, new therapies, or new ways of using known
treatments. A clinical trial is used to determine whether new drugs or treatments
are both safe and effective.
After researchers test new therapies or procedures in animal studies, the most
promising laboratory results are moved into clinical trials. This way, valuable
information is gained about a new treatment, it’s risks, and how well
they may or may not work.
Clinical trials can be sponsored or funded by a variety of organizations such
as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Department of Defense (DOD),
and the Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA). Funding can also be provided
through other means such as physicians, medical institutions, foundations, voluntary
groups, and pharmaceutical companies. Trials can take place in a variety of
locations, usually at hospitals, universities, doctors’ offices, or community
clinics.
There are different types of clinical trials:
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Treatment trials test new treatments, new combinations
of drugs, or new approaches to surgery or radiation therapy. |
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Prevention trials look for better ways to prevent disease
in people who have never had the disease or to prevent a disease from returning.
These approaches may include medicines, vitamins, vaccines, minerals, or
lifestyle changes. |
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Screening trials test the best way to detect certain
disease or health conditions. |
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Quality of Life trials explore ways to improve comfort
and the quality of life for individuals with a chronic illness. |
The process for each clinical trial may differ depending on the kind of trial
being conducted. The clinical trial staff includes doctors, nurses, and other
health care professionals. They check the health of the participant at the beginning
of the trial, give specific instructions for participating in the trial, monitor
the participant carefully during the trial, and stay in touch after the trial
is completed.
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