Clinical trials of colorectal cancer

Executive Summary

Clinical trials are considered a better method for treating colorectal cancer. The evaluation of new drugs, different combinations of treatments, new approaches to radiation therapy or surgery, and new therapies are integrated into colorectal cancer clinical trials. New treatments with better efficacy and safety are the outcome of a clinical trial. The results of the clinical trials have been effective in reducing the symptoms and side effects during the treatment. Volunteers or patients willing to participate in the clinical trials should communicate with their doctor and healthcare team and research expertise to make well decided informed choices regarding participating in the problem while signing informed consent. The volunteers willingly participate as they know the studies are a way to help advance the treatment of early- and late-stage of colorectal cancer. Some clinical trials study new ways to relieve symptoms and side effects during treatment. Others learn ways to manage the late effects that may happen a long time after colorectal cancer treatment.

Clinical Trials for Colorectal Cancer

On the path to finding different ways to treat colorectal cancer, various research and clinical trials have been carried out to find safe and effective treatments other than the standard ones. Every drug that is used now was once tested in clinical trials. The clinical studies mainly focus on finding a safe, effective, and better treatment or diagnostic procedure. They evaluate new chemotherapy or radiotherapy drugs for better treatment of cancer.

Taking part in clinical trials of colorectal cancer can benefit people by receiving treatment before it is available ^​1​. As the coin has two sides, there are some risks with the clinical trials, including its side effects and the possibility of new clinical trials not working. Clinical trials are also conducted on drugs and other therapies that can relieve the symptoms and side effects of treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, etc. People are strongly encouraged to talk with their health care team about the pros and cons of joining a specific study.

Participating in clinical trials of colorectal cancer can have many reasons ^​2​. For some people, taking part in a clinical trial is the only left out option to receive the best treatment for the type of cancer. Because standard treatments are not perfect, people are willing to face the uncertainty and challenges of a clinical trial to seek a better result. 

Some clinical trials study is new ways to relieve symptoms and side effects during treatment. Others learn ways to manage the late effects that may happen a long time after treatment. 

Insurance and the costs of clinical trials of colorectal cancer change depending upon location and by study. Some of the expenses from participating in the clinical trial are reimbursed in several programs.

Clinical trials of colorectal cancer also have specific “eligibility criteria” rules that help research patients be safe. You and your research team carefully review these criteria together. People participating in a clinical trial can stop participating at any time for any medical or personal reasons. The reasons may include that the new treatment is not working or has severe side effects. Experts keep an eye on clinical trials for any problems with each study. 

References