Clinical trials

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.

Participation in clinical trials drives innovation and best practice in healthcare, and generates the evidence needed to aid in decision making. 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? You can then find out if there is something suitable for you, as well as what is involved. It is recommended you have this discussion with your specialist.

Lung Foundation Australia is proud to support the Pulmonary Fibrosis Australasian Clinical Trials Network (PACT). PACT was established in 2017 as a key objective of the Centre for Research Excellence – Pulmonary Fibrosis (CRE-PF). PACT unites leading clinicians and researchers from across Australia and New Zealand to design, conduct and analyse clinical trials that will help find new advances in the diagnosis, treatments and management of pulmonary fibrosis.