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Research and new methods

Trials in Asia

The number of leukaemia trials in Asia is growing fast, in China, Japan, South Korea, India, Turkey and elsewhere. They can be searched in one place through the WHO ICTRP platform.

Last updated: ~1 min read
The National Cancer Center Hospital East in Kashiwa, Japan
Figure 1.The National Cancer Center in Japan

01Short answer

Many countries have their own registries (for example CTRI in India), whose data feed into ICTRP. Some trials are studying new CAR-T and targeted medicines. For every trial it is important to check ethics approval, the registry number and the centre's experience. Do not confuse “medical tourism” offers with real trials: a real trial is registered and does not guarantee a result.

02Simple explanation

ICTRP search.

National registries.

Check ethics approval.

Tourism is not a trial.

03Scientific explanation

WHO ICTRP is a search platform that combines trials from registries around the world.

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

ICTRP, national registries and ClinicalTrials.gov.

Lanterns
Figure 2.Lanterns — Trials in Asia

Caution

Offers without a registry number or ethics approval.

A network
Figure 3.A network — Trials in Asia

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
SearchingICTRP, national registries and ClinicalTrials.gov.
CautionOffers without a registry number or ethics approval.
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

ICTRP
International Clinical Trials Registry Platform.
CTRI
Clinical Trials Registry – India.
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

Is treatment cheaper in Asia?

It may be, but find out all costs and follow-up.

How can I tell if a trial is real?

Check the registry number and show it to your doctor.

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. Is treatment cheaper in Asia?

  2. How can I tell if a trial is real?

  3. Is this advance right for me?

My questions

12Sources

  1. World Health Organization. International Clinical Trials Registry Platform
  2. Indian Council of Medical Research. Clinical Trials Registry – India
  3. U.S. National Library of Medicine. ClinicalTrials.gov
  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. Childhood Cancers
  8. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) — Patient Version
  9. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) — Patient Version
  10. National Cancer Institute (NCI). CAR T Cells: Engineering Patients’ Immune Cells to Treat Their Cancers
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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