Why participate in a clinical trial?
Many of the dramatic advancements that have been made in treating cancer have come from the testing of new medications and procedures. These "clinical trials" are voluntary research studies that investigate new ways to prevent, detect, diagnose and treat cancer. Patients who participate in these investigative studies gain access to the most recent approaches, which are developed by the nation's foremost cancer specialists.
Through the Fox Chase Virtua Health Cancer Program, patients have access to a broad range of national clinical trials as well as some of those conducted for Fox Chase patients exclusively. Perhaps one of the most exciting new areas of research is cancer prevention. Right now at Virtua and across the United States and Canada, researchers are trying to determine if taking selenium and vitamin E can prevent prostate cancer. Men who participate in this study may reduce their chance of getting prostate cancer, and may have an opportunity to free future generations - their sons, grandsons, nephews and brothers - of the threat.
Individuals who are interested in participating in a research study should discuss with their physician options and potential benefits and risks. There are many safeguards in place to protect participants. At Virtua and other hospitals, an Institutional Review Board (IRB) reviews studies before they begin to ensure that potential benefits outweigh risks and to monitor data as the studies are conducted. Each individual is carefully monitored and can withdraw from the study at any time. All patients are informed about the study and are required to sign an informed consent. This is a written document that spells out what is involved including risks and benefits, and assures confidentiality and easy access to study updates.
For more information about clinical trials at Virtua or a free booklet, call 1-888-Virtua-3.