What are Clinical Trials?

What are Clinical Trials, and why are they important?

Clinical Trials are a means to research promising treatments, prevention techniques, and screening methods. Each trial is designed to answer a specific question regarding the new treatment. Typically, research trials “build” on the results of previous trials. Clinical Trials are constantly testing new treatments, new combinations of drugs, and new uses for existing treatments.

Before the Missouri Valley Cancer Consortium (MVCC) is able to offer a clinical trial as a treatment option, it has to be approved by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and National Institute of Health (NIH). They review a detailed protocol that dictates exactly what the required tests, treatments, and follow-up will be. They also review what the expected results are and what previous research can do to help “predict” the outcome of this study. After rigorous review and regulatory approval, research studies are opened up to patients. When a protocol is approved, it is believed that this treatment is at least as effective, if not better, than the treatments currently in use. In Oncology Clinical Trials, patients are always given at least the “standard treatment.”

As we gain more and more knowledge through successful (and unsuccessful) Clinical Trials, we are revolutionizing patient care. Specifically, research trials at the Missouri Valley Cancer Consortium are helping to improve cancer treatment and prevention options, not only for patients currently seeking treatment, but for generations to come.