Patients in trials do better even on standard treatment. (Stiller 1994)
A full list of trials available nationally can be found at https://www.ukctg.nihr.ac.uk/
Do ask if you are interested in going on a trial, if it is not available at your local hospital you can ask for a referral to a hospital where the trial is available. Do remember though, that just because you are interested in the trial it does not mean you will qualify for it, as each trial is looking for patients who meet very specific criteria. And do remember to ask about potential side effects, these can be ‘unpleasant’.
At the forum we had a very interesting talk on clinical trials from Helen moore a clinical research nurse. She has kindly given permission for her presentation to be made available to all- Cancer clinical trials at SaTH july 2013.
Some highlights from the presentation:-
In 2000 For every 1000 patients diagnosed with cancer in the UK, only 38 were entered into a well-designed peer-reviewed clinical study. NCRI and NCRN were established
In 2010/11 For every 1000 patients diagnosed with cancer in the UK, 198 entered a well designed trials.
Patients need clinical research ………
Evidence base for best treatment
Reduce deaths
Increase disease-free survival
Improve quality of life/relieve symptoms
Enhance quality of care
More in-depth investigations
Patient choice – should be offered available trial
Patients in trials do better even on standard treatment. (Stiller 1994)
