SCRI

Why Are Clinical Trials So Important? Data collected during a clinical trial can ultimately lead to a new therapy approval by the FDA and help in developing therapies that are safer and more effective. Additionally, patients who are no longer helped by existing standard of care treatments may find that a clinical trial provides hope and additional treatment options. What Should I Expect? If you qualify for a trial, your healthcare team will provide you with all applicable information. They will tell you, in a process called informed consent, how the trial will be conducted and the possible risks and benefits of the trial. You will then sign a document stating that you understand the details of the trial and that you are willing to participate. Even after signing the document of informed consent, you may withdraw from the trial at any time for any reason. The way you receive treatment depends on the specific clinical trial. Clinical trial treatments can come in many forms. These include but are not limited to the following: • Intravenous (IV) medications • Shots • Oral medications • Surgery • Radiation It is important that you follow the therapy protocol as directed and keep all scheduled visits. As with any cancer therapy, clinical trial treatments may come with side effects which your healthcare team will help you manage. It is very important to report to your healthcare team any side effects that you experience because that is part of what is being studied (how the therapy affects the whole body, not just the cancer cells). What Are The Risks? Through the process of informed consent, your medical team will make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. Because some of the medications being tested are new, side effects may still be unknown.

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