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Research and new methods

How to find a trial

The best start is to ask your own doctor. There are also open registries: ClinicalTrials.gov, the EU portal and the WHO ICTRP platform.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A woman searching for information on a laptop at a table at home
Figure 1.Searching for information at home

01Short answer

To search you need to know the exact type of leukaemia, any genetic changes, earlier treatments and your current condition. In a registry, look for the “recruiting” status, the location and the contact details. Show any trial you find to your doctor, who will assess whether it fits and makes sense. Be wary of offers that ask for money or promise a “guaranteed result”.

02Simple explanation

Start with your doctor.

Registries.

Prepare your details.

Be cautious.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: cancer clinical trials can be searched through registries.

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?

Preparation

A summary of your diagnosis, genetics and treatment history.

Connections
Figure 2.Connections — How to find a trial

Warning

A real trial does not charge for treatment or guarantee a result.

The registry
Figure 3.The registry — How to find 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
PreparationA summary of your diagnosis, genetics and treatment history.
WarningA real trial does not charge for treatment or guarantee a result.
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

Registry
An open list of trials.
Recruiting
Open to new participants.
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 a trial abroad?

Sometimes; ask about travel, costs and follow-up.

What if my doctor has not mentioned a trial?

You can ask yourself.

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 a trial abroad?

  2. What if my doctor has not mentioned a trial?

  3. Is this advance right for me?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. Find NCI-Supported Clinical Trials
  2. U.S. National Library of Medicine. ClinicalTrials.gov
  3. World Health Organization. International Clinical Trials Registry Platform
  4. National Cancer Institute. What Are Clinical Trials?
  5. National Cancer Institute. Phases of Clinical Trials
  6. National Cancer Institute. Using Trusted Resources
  7. American Cancer Society. Clinical Trials
  8. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Step 3: Clinical Research
  9. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Learn About Expanded Access and Other Treatment Options
  10. European Union. Clinical Trials Information System (CTIS) — public search
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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