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Nearly every medication and treatment you’ve used has undergone rigorous clinical trials. These vital studies rely on patient volunteers to test new theories, treatments or drugs. Clinical trials help the medical community assess safety, determine effective dosages and expand treatment options. Yet, despite their importance, misconceptions often discourage participation or leave patients with questions.

At (SCRI), more than 1,300 physicians enroll patients in clinical trials. Their contributions have driven pivotal research, leading to most of the new cancer therapies approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) over the past decade.

Vivek Subbiah, M.D., chief of Early-Phase Drug Development at SCRI, answers common questions about how SCRI supports patients throughout the clinical trial process.

1.  How does SCRI help to protect patient safety during the clinical trial process?

Patient safety is vital in clinical trials. Clinical trials are conducted according to strict scientific and ethical principles, and groups of experts at the national and local levels approve research studies before they begin.

One important group that evaluates clinical trials is the Institutional Review Board (IRB) which focuses on protecting the safety of study participants by reviewing the protocol to make sure the study is conducted fairly, and participants are well-informed of their rights during the study. 

We help to ensure that every patient is informed about the risks, benefits and procedures through a process called informed consent. A SCRI research team member reviews the study details with the patient and answers any questions before enrollment. 

Once enrolled, patients are closely monitored by their SCRI care team, and symptoms and health issues are thoroughly observed by experts. All clinicians and researchers adhere to strict protocols in conducting tests and treatments.  

2. Who qualifies for clinical trials?

Patients with various cancer stages and types may be eligible for clinical trials, not just those with advanced cancer.  

Our physicians can explore clinical trial options at any phase of a patient’s cancer journey and there are often clinical trials for specific type of cancer.  Two patients with similar diagnoses may have different genetic drivers for their types of cancer, making targeted therapies in clinical trials highly relevant. Participation in clinical trials allows patients to access potentially safer or more effective treatments and receive close monitoring by their care team. 

Beyond personal benefits, clinical trial participation contributes to advancing cancer research, potentially improving treatment options for patients. In 2024 alone, SCRI contributed to 33 of the 47 FDA-approved therapies for adults.  

3. Does SCRI have a clinical trial near me?  

Clinical trials are available in various settings, including community-based cancer centers and physician practices. Patients who meet the eligibility criteria can enroll in a clinical trial without needing a referral from their doctor.  

We make these trials more accessible by partnering with local oncology practices to bring research directly to patients' communities. 85% of cancer patients seek care in their communities, so we meet patients where they are and provide innovative clinical research close to home, without the need to travel to larger academic centers. We work with more than 200 locations, on more than 700 clinical trials to help patients receive this treatment more conveniently.  

Additionally, patients can take a proactive approach by and discussing potential options with their local healthcare providers. 

4. What can patients expect when participating in a SCRI clinical trial?

Throughout the clinical trial process, our physicians and trial specialists maintain regular communication with patients to guide them through their treatment and ensure clear understanding. Patients interact with various clinical professionals who monitor trial progress, which may involve blood tests, electrocardiograms and the administration of oral or intravenous medications as necessary. 

During routine visits, patients meet with their physician and trial specialist to review any side effects, symptoms and medications taken, and complete quality-of-life questionnaires about any lifestyle changes experienced during therapy. The patient's primary physician oversees the management of the patient’s specific condition throughout the clinical trial, considering alternative therapies if continuation of the current treatment is no longer appropriate. In cancer clinical trials, placebos are not used as substitutes for the standard of care; if included, they are administered alongside an active drug. 

Participation in clinical trials is voluntary, and patients may withdraw at any time without affecting their medical care. Our care team communicates with the patient’s primary physician to keep all healthcare providers informed. Being part of a clinical trial does not limit access to other treatments and may offer additional treatment options that are potentially more effective or better tolerated than standard therapies.