If you or someone you love has cancer, you may have heard about clinical trials. These research studies help scientists find new and better ways to treat cancer. But there are a lot of myths that might make some hesitant to consider one. Let’s clear things up and get the facts straight.
Myth #1: Clinical trials are only for people who have run out of options
Many people think clinical trials are a last resort and only for patients who have no other treatments left. That’s not true:
- Some clinical trials test brand-new treatments.
- Others study ways to make current treatments work better.
- Some focus on reducing over-treatment by shortening treatment, or replacing older chemotherapies with long-term risks.
- Many trials are offered as the first cancer treatment to help avoid surgery or prevent recurrence
- Some focus on preventing cancer or reducing side effects.
Myth #2: If you join a clinical trial, you may get a sugar pill instead of a real treatment
A lot of people worry that they’ll get a placebo (an inactive treatment) instead of actual medicine. But here’s the truth:
- Cancer clinical trials rarely use placebos alone.
- If a placebo is used, it’s always given alongside the best standard treatment, never in place of it.
- Doctors and ethics review boards do not allow nothing if a known treatment is available.
"One common misconception is placebos. Our clinical trials are built on a scientific foundation with the best ethical principles behind them, and one of those is we have to give our patients the very best,” says Mark Burkard, MD, PhD, Director of University of Iowa Health Care Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Myth #3: Clinical trials are too risky
It’s normal to worry about safety, but clinical trials follow very strict guidelines to protect patients:
- Treatments often go through years of testing before they’re given to people.
- Patients in clinical trials are closely monitored by doctors.
- You can leave the trial at any time if you’re uncomfortable.
Myth #4: Clinical trials are expensive, and insurance won’t cover them
Some people think they can’t afford a clinical trial, but in most cases, you won’t have extra costs:
- Many trials cover the cost of the new treatment being tested.
- Insurance often covers standard treatments and doctor visits.
- Some programs offer financial help for travel and other expenses.
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Myth #5: You’ll be treated like a guinea pig
It’s understandable to feel nervous about trying something new. But clinical trials aren’t about experimenting on people—they’re about helping patients while improving cancer treatment:
- Every trial must be approved by medical and ethics boards before starting.
- Patients are fully informed about risks and benefits before they agree to join.
- The goal is always to improve cancer care, not to put patients at risk.
"People who volunteer to participate in a clinical trial are enrolling in a research study. So, it’s important that they understand what it is,” Burkard says. “At the same time, we genuinely care about and are committed to giving the most effective treatment to all patients in a clinical trial."
Should you consider a clinical trial?
If you have cancer, talking to your doctor about clinical trials may give you more options:
- You may get access to a cutting-edge treatment before it’s widely available.
- You’ll be helping future cancer patients by advancing research.
- You’ll always have the choice to stop if you feel it’s not right for you.
Clinical trials have led to life-saving treatments that wouldn’t exist without the patients who participated. If you’re curious, talk to your doctor or check trusted websites like the National Cancer Institute.
An opportunity
The bottom line? Clinical trials are an opportunity. And they might be the key to beating cancer for good. If you want to learn more about clinical trials and how you can get involved, don't hesitate to reach out and ask questions. Your doctor is there to support and guide you through your cancer journey, including exploring the option of participating in a clinical trial.
Don't be afraid to take charge of your health and consider all available options for treatment. Join the fight against cancer by considering a clinical trial today.