Clinical trials are research investigations in which people volunteer to test new treatments, interventions or tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage various diseases or medical conditions1. Some trials look at how people respond and what side effects might occur which helps determine if it works, if it is safe to use, and if it is better than the interventions that are already available1.
A trial might also compare existing interventions, test new ways to use or combine existing interventions or observe how people respond to other factors that might affect their health (such as dietary changes)1.
If you are interested in taking part in a clinical trial, the first step is to ask the question, is a clinical trial right for you, and find out if there something suitable as well as what is involved. There is a lot of information about clinical trials available so it is important to research and seek information from a number of credible sources as well as discussing it with your health professional. To find out more about clinical trials visit lungfoundation.com.au/find-a-clinical-trial.
Reference:
1 Australian Clinical Trials, 2015, https://www.australianclinicaltrials.gov.au/what-clinical-trial