Benefits of Clinical Trial Participation
Cancer experts, including Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS), continue to expand the number and scope of clinical trial opportunities available to cancer patients. More than 200 patients in Lee County participate in early phase clinical studies each year — taking advantage of early access to the newest and most promising treatments available. Best of all, patients are able to receive their treatment close to home in a comfortable, familiar setting with a health care team they know and trust.
Unfortunately, the National Institutes of Health estimates that less than five percent of cancer patients choose to participate in clinical trials, possibly due to myths and misinformation. Three of the most common myths are addressed below:
- Clinical trials expand treatment options. Some think of clinical trials as a last resort. Not so. Patients who participate have the opportunity to access the most up-to-date treatments available, personalized for their unique conditions. Studies consistently show that their outcomes are as least as good, if not better, than the general patient population.
- Clinical trials are safe. Patients are carefully monitored by experienced health care professionals at every step of treatment and all trials are strictly managed by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.
- Clinical trials provide hope for cancer patients everywhere. Every clinical trial improves our understanding of cancer. They help to determine if a therapy, drug or procedure shows a better way of treating a particular cancer or a condition for which a treatment didn’t previously exist.
The FCS oncology care experts in Lee County are proud to play a key role in bringing more effective drugs to the marketplace through active participation in clinical trials. We continue to encourage eligible patients to take part in clinical trials, so we can continue to improve overall cancer survivorship.
To learn more about the clinical trials offered at FCS, click here: FLCancer.com/Clinical-Trials