Many clinical trials are designed for patients who have not yet started treatment, meaning some trials may offer the best first-line therapy available. Exploring clinical trial options early in your treatment journey may provide access to cutting-edge treatments before they are widely available.
Some patients mistakenly believe that clinical trials are a last resort, but waiting until standard treatments fail could disqualify you from participating in certain studies. Trials have strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the safety of participants and the validity of the data collected.
Eligibility criteria vary by study and may consider:
- Genetic mutations (e.g., a trial may require a BRCA mutation for eligibility)
- Type and stage of cancer
- Previous treatments received
- Lab test results and medical history
If you are considering a clinical trial, it is important to discuss your options with your doctor early in your diagnosis. By understanding what trials are available, you can make an informed decision about whether a breakthrough therapy could be the right option for you.
