Clinical studies contribute to the overall knowledge and progress in the fight against cancer. Many of today's standard treatments for cancer began in clinical trials, such as lumpectomy for breast cancer, new chemotherapy drugs for colon and rectal cancer, and the combination of chemotherapy and radiation for advanced cervical cancer. Many people who receive treatment for cancer are now living longer thanks to the knowledge gained through clinical trials. By taking part in clinical trials, patients and physicians can help researchers make significant advances in the fight against cancer. Also, participation provides access to state-of-the-art treatments.

An estimated 1.2 million Americans will receive a diagnosis of cancer this year, but only 3 to 5% of them will participate in a clinical study. One reason may be the fear of receiving a placebo, or sugar pill. However, placebos are rarely used in cancer clinical studies, and they are never used in place of the best treatment for a given cancer.

By participating in a clinical trial, patients have access to the latest drugs or procedures and are among the first to receive potentially effective new therapies. Studies have shown that trial participants have outcomes that are as good as, if not better than, those who do not participate, even if they get the standard of care and not the treatment that is being tested.

Cancer clinical trials are sponsored by various organizations in both government and industry, including cooperative groups, academic medical centers, community oncology centers, federal agencies, and pharmaceutical companies. They are conducted at thousands of sites throughout the United States every year.

Below are some useful sources of information about cancer clinical trials: