Five Fact Everyone Should Know about Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are an essential part of medical research, and they help bring new treatments and medications to the public. However, there are many misconceptions about clinical trials that prevent people from participating. In this article, we will explore ten interesting facts about clinical trials that will help you understand why they are important and debunk some common myths.
1. Clinical trials are not just for people with serious illnesses.
Contrary to popular belief, clinical trials are not just for people with life-threatening conditions. Clinical trials cover a broad range of conditions, including chronic diseases, mental health disorders, and even cosmetic treatments. The goal of clinical trials is to test the effectiveness and safety of new treatments and medications, so people with all types of conditions are needed.
Reference:
1. National Institutes of Health. Clinical Trials. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/about-studies/learn#WhatIsCT. Accessed on April 15, 2023.
2. Clinical trials are not just for adults.
Clinical trials are not just for adults; they also involve children and teenagers. Pediatric clinical trials are essential for developing safe and effective treatments for children and adolescents. Parents and guardians are encouraged to enroll their children in clinical trials to help advance medical research.
Reference:
2. National Institutes of Health. Children and Clinical Studies. Available at: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/studies/children-clinical-studies. Accessed on April 15, 2023.
3. Clinical trials are safe
Clinical trials are conducted under strict guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety of participants. Before a clinical trial begins, it must be approved by an institutional review board (IRB) to ensure that the study is ethical and safe for participants. Additionally, the FDA closely monitors clinical trials to ensure that all safety protocols are followed.
Reference:
3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA's Drug Review Process: Ensuring Drugs Are Safe and Effective. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/fdas-drug-review-process-ensuring-drugs-are-safe-and-effective. Accessed on April 15, 2023.
4. Clinical trials are free
Participating in a clinical trial is usually free because the costs are covered by the sponsor of the trial, such as a pharmaceutical company or research institution. Additionally, participants may receive compensation for their time and travel expenses.
Reference:
4. National Institutes of Health. Clinical Trials. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/about-studies/learn#Cost. Accessed on April 15, 2023.
5. Clinical trials are confidential
Clinical trials are confidential, and participants' personal information is protected. Before enrolling in a clinical trial, participants must sign a consent form that outlines how their information will be used and who will have access to it.
Reference:
5. National Institutes of Health. Clinical Trials. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/about-studies/learn#Confidentiality. Accessed on April 15, 2023.
