Tuesday, July 21, 2009

What Are Clinical Trials For Cancer?

By Allan Tan

Clinical trials for cancer test the effectiveness and safety of new scientific discoveries in the treatment of cancer. Some clinical trials for cancer are not focused on new cancer treatments, but test the effectiveness of screening and prevention methods.

Screening methods for cancer are tested using clinical trials for cancer to see if the screening method allows doctors to detect the cancer sooner than currently used screening methods. Early detection is important since the earlier the cancer is detected, the earlier treatment can begin. Treatment is often more effective if started early.

Some clinical trials for cancer screening detect specific kinds of cancer. Prostate cancer, lung cancer, and breast cancer are examples of cancers that have been the subject of screening cancer trials.

Prevention methods for cancer such as taking certain medications or supplements are tested using clinical trials. The effectiveness of the medications and supplements are tested over time by screening the patients for cancer before, during, and after the clinical trials to see if the rate of those who developed the cancer is less than the expected rate without a preventative treatment for cancer.

Part of cancer treatment is determining which treatment method is best for the type of cancerous tumor. Some clinical trials for cancer test methods for determining the best for a specific tumor. The determination may be done by investigating which proteins are produced by the tumor and using that information to determine the most effective treatment for that tumor.

New cancer fighting drugs or other treatments may be tested with cancer clinical trials. The treatment being tested could be a way of improving the effectiveness of a current cancer treatment.

Clinical trials typically have an enrollment period during which new participants can sign up. After the deadline, enrollment is closed to new participants. Some insurance companies including Medicare will pay for the patients participation in cancer clinical trials.

Not only do clinical trials for cancer provide information to doctors, but they also help guide future research. Even a failed clinical trial can provide valuable information to researchers.

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