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Research and new methods

Science card: check a research story in one minute

This card brings the section's main ideas together. Use it when reading news or discussing a trial with your doctor.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A fanned stack of blank index cards on a wooden desk
Figure 1.Cards to remember

01Short answer

1) Source: who, when, and are there references? 2) Stage: cells, animals or people, and which phase? 3) Size: how many people, and was there a comparison group? 4) Result: what was measured, such as response, remission, survival or quality of life? 5) Who it applies to: which type of leukaemia and genetic change? 6) Risks: which side effects? 7) For me: is the trial available and am I eligible? The last step is always the same: talk to your doctor.

02Simple explanation

Source.

Stage and size.

Who it applies to.

Talk to your doctor.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: reliable sources and a talk with your doctor help you understand research news correctly.

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 use the card

Read the story, go through the seven questions and note the answers.

Icons
Figure 2.Icons — Science card: check a research story in one minute

What not to do

Do not change treatment because of a news story.

A pocket notebook
Figure 3.A pocket notebook — Science card: check a research story in one minute

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 use the cardRead the story, go through the seven questions and note the answers.
What not to doDo not change treatment because of a news story.
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

Phase
A stage of a clinical trial.
Endpoint
The main result a trial measures.
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 print the card?

Yes, take it to your doctor.

What if I cannot find every answer?

That is normal; ask 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. Can I print the card?

  2. What if I cannot find every answer?

  3. Is this advance right for me?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. Using Trusted Resources
  2. MedlinePlus. Evaluating Health Information
  3. National Cancer Institute. What Are Clinical Trials?
  4. National Cancer Institute. Phases of Clinical Trials
  5. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Placebos in Cancer Clinical Trials
  6. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Questions to Ask About Clinical Trials
  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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