Research –What is a clinical trial?

Research into new ways of treating lymphoma is going on all the time. Some researchers are looking at new anti-cancer treatments, while others are looking at new ways to stop or slow the spread of cancer. The best time to give chemotherapy and radiotherapy is also being investigated. Many new chemotherapy drugs are being tested for their effectiveness in the treatment of lymphoma. Doctors are also investigating the use of high-dose treatments in groups of patients who, in the past, were not thought to be suitable for this type of treatment.

Your doctor may ask you to try a new form of drug or radiotherapy treatment. Doctors can only improve the treatment of cancer by trying new treatments on carefully selected groups of patients. These are called clinical trials. Sometimes, several hospitals take part in the same clinical trial. The more people who take part in a trial the more useful the findings will be.

You cannot be included in a clinical trial without your permission. You can only give this consent if the trial has been explained to you, so that you understand what the trial is about. This is known as informed consent. You will also need time to think about it and discuss it with your family or friends. If you decide not to take part you will be given the best treatment currently available.

You may be asked to take part in one of these studies. By taking part in a trial you may not benefit yourself, but you will be helping to improve the prospects of other patients in the future.

If you would like to find out more about clinical trials, there is a booklet available.

In Ireland, call the Cancer Helpline Freefone 1800 200 700 for a copy.

Even after agreeing to take part in a trial, you can still withdraw at any time if you change your mind.