In cancer research, a clinical trial is a study designed to answer scientific questions. Advances in cancer treatment have occurred largely because of the knowledge gained in large clinical trials that test new and better ways to treat cancer patients. The search for good cancer treatments begins with carefully controlled laboratory research. The promising results of these experiments are then tested and monitored in patients with cancer to determine the effectiveness of the treatment.
Clinical research is the bridge between the basic research laboratory and the patient's bedside.
With any new treatment, there may be risks, as well as possible benefits. During a trial, as information is gained about a new treatment, there may be some unforseen negative side effects that occur. However, patient safety is the number one priority in clinical trials, and patients are closely monitored. If a clinical trial shows that a new cancer treatment is better than the current standard treatment, the new treatment may become the standard for treating that particular kind of cancer. Once drug development has been completed from initial laboratory studies, clinical trials progress through phases of testing.