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Research and new methods

Trials in Europe

In the European Union, clinical trials follow common rules and are published on a public portal (CTIS). The EMA oversees this system.

Last updated: ~1 min read
The flag of the European Union waving against a modern building
Figure 1.The European Union

01Short answer

One trial can run in several countries at once, and the portal can be searched by country, disease and status. Some trials are run by international leukaemia groups. To take part in another country, insurance, costs, language and follow-up after returning home should be settled in advance. European registries can also be viewed on the WHO ICTRP platform.

02Simple explanation

A single portal.

EMA oversight.

Multi-country trials.

A travel plan.

03Scientific explanation

EMA: in the EU, clinical trials follow common rules that protect participants.

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?

Searching

The CTIS portal and WHO ICTRP.

Bridges
Figure 2.Bridges — Trials in Europe

Travel

Clarify insurance and follow-up.

A portal
Figure 3.A portal — Trials in Europe

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
SearchingThe CTIS portal and WHO ICTRP.
TravelClarify insurance and follow-up.
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

CTIS
The EU Clinical Trials Information System.
EMA
European Medicines Agency.
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 a non-EU citizen join?

Sometimes; ask the centre.

What language is the information in?

Often English and the local language.

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 a non-EU citizen join?

  2. What language is the information in?

  3. Is this advance right for me?

My questions

12Sources

  1. European Union. EU Clinical Trials (CTIS public portal)
  2. European Medicines Agency. Clinical trials in human medicines
  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. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: informed consent
  8. NIHR. Be Part of Research
  9. NHS. Clinical trials
  10. Cancer Research UK. Find a clinical trial
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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