It also maintains a broad scope of research in the areas of basic science, clinical research and prevention and control efforts, and exhibits a high degree of interaction between these activities. In addition to excellence in research, comprehensive cancer centers must excel in providing outreach, education and cancer information to the communities it serves. Research-oriented cancer centers have the unique ability not only to generate new knowledge, but to make sure that the knowledge actually benefits people by making medical advances available to patients as soon as possible. Patients can gain access to cutting edge advances by participating in clinical studies offered at comprehensive cancer centers. An advantage of participating in a clinical study is the possibility that a new treatment, diagnostic test or preventive measure will turn out to be more effective than an established procedure.
Patients participating in clinical trials receive highly specialized and carefully monitored care.
Since studies are often part of a network of clinical studies carried out around the country, physicians and researchers share their ideas and experience, allowing patients to benefit from their pooled knowledge. It is also an opportunity to contribute to new advances in the fight against cancer. By studying these cases, researchers are discovering factors that lead to increased risk of developing certain cancers, as well as developing new prevention methods. Patients and community members have access to cancer prevention, screening and support programs and resources. The great majority of NCI support is for research.