Today, thanks to the Internet and more clinical trials being conducted by independent community-based physicians, it is easier than ever before to find a trial that fits your needs.
Numerous resources can assist in identifying available trials that may be right for you. Besides the resources listed here, you own primary and specialty care doctors and nurses are always a good starting point for conducting a broad base search and then narrowing down your options to target your specific needs.
If you don't find the right trial on your first attempt, don’t become discouraged. Remember, each piece of information that you collect and every person you speak with may assist you in tracking down a clinical trial that could hold some potential for you.
If need be, ask family and friends to help you with the broad base search to collect as many opportunities as possible, thereby increasing your chances of finding the right trial for you.
Additionally, local research hospitals and universities are often looking for patient participants. They typically list available studies on their web site and in the local newspaper. Radio, television and billboard ads are often used by private research companies seeking participants.
In addition, a wealth of disease-specific websites and organizations often keep up-to-date information about clinical trials.These website databases are a great place to being your online search. You can typically find the most recently updated listing of clinical trials.
- www.SearchClinicalTrials.org offers a free search engine database online based on your condition and or geographical location, or you can get help from a staff member who will search for you by filling out the online form or calling the toll-free number, 1-877-MED HERO.
- www.ClinicalTrials.gov is an easy-to-search Web site containing thousands of clinical studies that you can use to find studies on a particular disease or condition. You can also search for a specific type of treatment or for a study located near you. Help menus are available to guide you through searching the database.
- www.Cancer.gov/clinicaltrials is a database that includes a comprehensive list of cancer-related clinical trials primarily sponsored by National Cancer Institute (NCI).
It also contains many clinical trials sponsored by pharmaceutical companies, medical centers, and other groups from around the world. Simply fill in your information online and begin your search. You may also live chat with a representative if you have cancer questions or need help.
- www.CenterWatch.com is a global source for clinical trial information. The website offers news, analysis, study grants, career opportunities, and trial information for patients and professionals. The site offers a clinical trial listing service for patients interested in participating in a study.
- www.Acurian.com is a private company who maintains a database of patients interested in opting into clinical studies. The database is also available to researchers interested in patient recruitment. When a study that you may qualify for becomes available, Acurian notifies you by mail or email.
- www.ClinicalTrials.com connects patients with clinical trials that may be right for them. After registering on the website, you will be asked to complete a screening process. If you qualify for a clinical trial the site’s staff will contact you to schedule any trial-related clinic visits and discuss your participation in more detail. Your participation is completely voluntary. So, even if you decide to enroll in a clinical trial, you are free to leave the trial at any time, for any reason.
- www.armyofwomen.com connects women with breast cancer researchers conducting a wide array of clinical trials. By registering on the website, you will be notified by email when studies are available. You decide which studies to participate in.
- www.ClinicalConnection.com is website where anyone can search and apply online for clinical trials for all types of medical conditions as well as healthy volunteer studies.
Lynette Summerill is an award-winning writer and Scuba enthusiast living in San Diego, CA with her husband and two beach loving dogs. In addition to writing about cancer-related issues for EmpowHER, her work has been seen in newspapers and magazines around the world.
Reviewed March 8, 2012
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith