The Promise of Cancer Research
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 ways to treat brain tumors.
Research has already 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 anticancer drugs, doses, and treatment schedules. They are working with various drugs and drug
combinations, as well as combinations of drugs and radiation therapy. They also are testing new methods and
schedules of radiation therapy.
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 treatment
for brain tumors. The Cancer
Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER can answer questions and provide
information about clinical trials.
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