Clinical Trials: Should You Consider Them?
When you’re facing a diagnosis—whether it’s cancer or another serious illness—it can feel like the world has turned sideways. Suddenly, you’re asked to make decisions about treatments, medications, side effects, and timelines… all while trying to hold onto some sense of control.
Somewhere in that swirl, someone might mention clinical trials.
And maybe you pause. What does that even mean? Is that safe? Is it right for me?
Let’s talk about it—openly, honestly, and with the compassion you deserve.
What Is a Clinical Trial, Really?
Clinical trials are research studies that explore whether a medical strategy, treatment, or device is safe and effective. They’re the reason we have nearly every medication or therapy on the market today.
But here’s the thing people often miss: clinical trials aren’t just about science—they’re about people. Real people, just like you, who are brave enough to say yes to something that might help not only themselves but others down the road.
Why Do People Join Clinical Trials?
There are a lot of reasons someone might consider participating:
- Access to new treatments: You may be able to receive a therapy not yet available elsewhere.
- Close medical attention: Trial participants are often closely monitored by a dedicated care team.
- Helping others: Many choose trials not just for themselves, but to advance medicine for future generations.
- Hope. Sometimes it just comes down to that word. Hope for a better outcome. Hope for options. Hope for more time.
But Are They Safe?
This is the million-dollar question—and it’s a fair one.
Yes, clinical trials are regulated, reviewed by ethics boards, and overseen by medical professionals. Safety is a top priority. That said, any treatment—trial or not—comes with risks. A good care team will always walk you through those, answer questions honestly, and give you space to decide.
You are never a “guinea pig.” You are a participant. A partner in research. You have rights, including the right to say no, to change your mind, or to ask a hundred questions before making a decision.
How Do You Know If It’s Right for You?
Start by asking:
- What is this trial studying?
- What phase is it in? (Phase 1 trials are the earliest and most experimental; Phase 3 or 4 are closer to approval.)
- What are the risks and possible benefits?
- Will this affect my current treatment plan?
- What are the costs involved, if any?
Then ask yourself: How do I feel about this? What does your gut say? Your heart? Your body?
This is your life. Your journey. And there is no wrong answer—only the one that fits you best.
Final Thoughts: You Are Not Alone
If you’re considering a clinical trial, you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. Talk to your doctors. Bring a friend or loved one to ask the hard questions. Look for support groups. And if you’re part of a wellness center or community program, use them. That’s what we’re here for.
Whether you choose to join a trial or not, know this: you are already doing something brave. You’re advocating for your care. You’re asking the right questions. You’re showing up for yourself.
And that matters.
If you are in Illinois and interested and seeing if there are any clinical trials for your cancer, here is a few options to help you get started on your search.
https://illinoiscancercare.com/?s=&post_types=trialshttps://www.uchicagomedicine.org/cancer/research/clinical-trialshttps://illinoiscancerspecialists.com/treatments-services/clinical-trials-research/
https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/cancer/research/clinical-trials
https://www.cancer.northwestern.edu/clinical-trials/trials.html
