Your doctor may have mentioned the possibility of entering into a clinical study. In clinical studies, prescription medicines and new treatments are studied. Your doctor may recommend going into a clinical study for a potential treatment that is being tested and hasn’t been approved yet.
What is a Clinical Study?
A clinical study is used to test how well medicines work for certain groups of people and diseases, and how safe they are. They can also compare one medicine to another.
Since treatments for lung cancer are always being developed, there are studies underway to study these treatments.
Finding Clinical Studies
The National Cancer Institute can link you with clinical study options. Talk with your doctor to determine if a clinical study may be right for you.
Is Participating in a Clinical Study Right for Me?
Deciding to take part in a clinical study can be a difficult decision, and it may not be for everyone.
Here are some questions to consider before making the commitment:
- Why do I want to be in a clinical study?
- What are my goals and expectations if I decide to take part? How realistic are these?
- Do I understand the chance of benefits versus the risks?
- Have I thought of other possible factors, such as travel, time, and money?
- Have I considered other possible treatment options?
Each person’s situation is unique, and each person’s reasons for wanting or not wanting to take part in a study may be different. Discussing with family and your healthcare team can help you make the best decision for you.