The Promise of Cancer Research
Doctors all over the country are conducting clinical trials (research studies
in which people volunteer to take part). Many are studying new ways to treat
multiple myeloma.
Clinical trials are designed to answer important questions and to find out
whether the new treatments are safe and effective. Research already has led to
advances, such as stem cell transplantation, and researchers continue to look
for better ways to treat multiple myeloma.
Researchers are testing anticancer drugs (such as thalidomide and bortezomib)
and drug combinations. They are also testing ways to improve stem cell
transplantation for people with multiple myeloma.
People who join clinical trials may be among the first to benefit if a new
approach is effective. And even if participants do not benefit directly, they
still make an important contribution to medicine by helping doctors learn more
about the disease and how to control it. Although clinical trials may pose some
risks, researchers do all they can to protect their patients.
If you are interested in being part of a clinical trial, you should talk with
your doctor. You may want to read the NCI booklet Taking Part in Cancer Treatment Research Studies. It explains how clinical trials are carried out and explains their possible benefits and risks.
NCI's Web site includes a section on clinical trials at
http://www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials. It has general information about
clinical trials as well as detailed information about specific ongoing studies
of multiple myeloma. Information Specialists at 1-800-4-CANCER or at
LiveHelp at
http://www.cancer.gov can answer questions
and provide information about clinical trials.
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