Phase II studies determine the effect of a research treatment on various types of cancer. Most treatments that are now considered standard for cancer were first shown to be effective in clinical trials. With any new treatment there may be risks as well as possible benefits. There also may be some risks that are not yet known. Only patients who wish to take part in a clinical trial do so .
Patients take part in clinical trials for many reasons.
Usually, they hope for benefits for themselves. They may hope for a cure of disease, a longer time to live, a way to feel better. Often they want to contribute to a research effort that may help others. Although there always is a chance that a new treatment will be disappointing, the researchers involved in a study have reason to believe that it will be as good as, or better than, current treatments. You may be interested in or be asked to enter a clinical trial.