Doctors all over the country are conducting many types of clinical trials. These are research studies in which people take part voluntarily. Studies include new methods of treatment and supportive care for patients with leukemia. Research already has led to advances, and researchers continue to search for more effective approaches.

Patients who join these studies have the first chance to benefit from treatments that have shown promise in earlier research. They also make an important contribution to medical science by helping doctors learn more about the disease. Although clinical trials may pose some risks, researchers take very careful steps to protect their patients.

Researchers are testing new biological therapies and new anticancer drugs, doses, and treatment schedules. They also are working with various drugs and with combinations of drugs, biological therapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation.

Patients who are interested in being part of a clinical trial should talk with their doctor. They 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. This section of the Web site provides general information about clinical trials. It also offers detailed information about ongoing studies of leukemia treatment. The Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER can answer questions and provide information about clinical trials.

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