Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are research studies aimed at finding better ways to treat a specific disease. They are used extensively in cancer treatment. Oncology clinical trials often evaluate standard treatment in comparison with new treatment regimes. The Sibley Cancer Center participates in prevention and treatment clinical trials, serving patients throughout Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia.

These are some questions people ask about participating in Clinical Trials:

1. Am I a candidate for a clinical trial?
   Each study has eligibility criteria that describe the parameters for enrollment. Discuss your possible participation with your physician.
   
   
2. Why should I participate?
   Clinical trials often offer new and innovative approaches to care that are not yet available in the community. Results of a recent survey indicate that 97 percent of the respondents who participated in clinical trials reported being treated with dignity and respect and felt they received excellent quality care.
   
   
3. How do I determine which clinical trial is best for me?
   Consult your physician or call Natalie D'Itri, RN at 202-243-2373 to learn about studies available at Sibley.
   
   The National Cancer Center's Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER is also a resource at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov.