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Research and new methods

Who can join a trial

Not everyone can take part in a clinical trial: each trial has its own conditions. This protects participants and keeps results reliable.

Last updated: ~1 min read
An open door
Figure 1.An open door — Who can join a trial

01Short answer

Conditions usually concern the type and stage of the disease, earlier treatments, age, heart, kidney and liver function, other illnesses and pregnancy. There may be separate trials for children and older people. Suitability is checked with tests during “screening”. Not qualifying does not mean anything is wrong with you; the trial's question simply does not apply to you.

02Simple explanation

Each trial has conditions.

For safety.

Screening.

Another trial may fit.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: eligibility criteria are the rules that decide who can join a trial.

NCI: new treatments are tested step by step, from the laboratory to clinical trials; only those proven safe and beneficial become standard care.

04What happens in the body?

How to find out

From your doctor or a trial registry.

A group of people of different ages and backgrounds standing together
Figure 2.Different people

If you do not qualify

Standard treatment continues.

A filter
Figure 3.A filter — Who can join a trial

How to read the news

Research news brings hope, but not every advance suits everyone. Look at who it was tested in, at what phase and in how many people.

Talk to your doctor

Show your doctor what you have read; they will explain how it relates to your diagnosis and treatment. Do not change your treatment on your own.

05From research news to a conversation: four steps

Read, check, ask, decide together.

Read — From a trusted source.1ReadFrom a trusted source.
Check — Phase, participants, result.2CheckPhase, participants, result.
Ask — Show your doctor.3AskShow your doctor.
Decide — Together, without rushing.4DecideTogether, without rushing.
SourceA trusted site.
DoctorA personal explanation.
SafetyNot changing treatment yourself.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
How to find outFrom your doctor or a trial registry.
If you do not qualifyStandard treatment continues.
How to read the newsResearch news brings hope, but not every advance suits everyone. Look at who it was tested in, at what phase and in how many people.
Talk to your doctorShow your doctor what you have read; they will explain how it relates to your diagnosis and treatment. Do not change your treatment on your own.

07Key terms

Eligibility criteria
The rules for joining.
Screening
Checking suitability.
Clinical trial
Testing a new treatment with volunteers.
Evidence
A result confirmed by reliable research.

08Key points

  • Learn.
  • Ask your doctor.
  • Write it down.
  • Check the source.
  • Talk to your doctor.

09Frequently asked questions

Can I join if I am older?

In many trials, yes; check the conditions.

Does it cost money?

It depends on the country and trial; ask.

Is this advance right for me?

Only your treating doctor can say, based on your diagnosis, stage and condition.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Can I join if I am older?

  2. Does it cost money?

  3. Is this advance right for me?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: eligibility criteria
  2. National Cancer Institute. What Are Clinical Trials?
  3. National Cancer Institute. Find NCI-Supported Clinical Trials
  4. National Cancer Institute. Phases of Clinical Trials
  5. National Cancer Institute. Using Trusted Resources
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Biomarker Testing / Precision Medicine
  7. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA Drug Review Process (continued)
  8. European Medicines Agency. Clinical trials in human medicines
  9. National Cancer Institute. Informed Consent in Clinical Trials
  10. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: clinical trial
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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