Pros and Cons
You should always evaluate the pros and cons of taking part in a clinical trial and then make the decision that's right for you:
Pros
- The treatment offered may be more effective than the standard available treatment.
- Patients are closely monitored and receive quality care from doctors and health care professionals who specialize in cancer.
- Participants in clinical trials may be the first ones to benefit from a new treatment.
- Results from the clinical trial may help others in the future by leading to better cancer treatments.
- It is possible for patients who join a clinical trial to continue seeing their primary care physician, even though the trial may not be coordinated by their physician.
Cons
- The treatment offered may turn out to be less effective than the standard available treatment.
- The risks or side effects of the treatment may be unknown or unexpected.
- Patients may not be able to choose the treatment they receive.
- Patients may need to travel to another location where the trial is being conducted.
- The costs of care and the treatment itself may not be covered by health insurance or managed care plans.
