Click for Clinical Trials:
Volunteer for research at UMClinicalStudies.org
Advances in medicine have led to better treatments for cancer. But none of this
progress would be possible without the help of patients who volunteer to participate
in research studies. That's why the University of Michigan Health System
recently launched
UMClinicalStudies.org,
an improved website where patients can learn about clinical trials and register to
volunteer.
Clinical trials are critical because they allow doctors to develop the safest and most
effective treatments using a methodical, scientifically sound approach. Patients, meanwhile,
receive the latest medicine has to offer while
being carefully monitored by a team
of experts who are leaders in their fields.
"A nationwide shortage of research
volunteers is slowing progress in the fight
against cancer," said Maha Hussain, M.D.,
associate director of clinical research for the University of Michigan Comprehensive
Cancer Center. "But the more we empower
patients with information about research
and help to connect them with studies that
are right for them, the better our cancer
therapies will become."
UMClinicalStudies.org is one way to
make that connection. The site features a
wide range of resources, including a searchable
database of open trials and a comprehensive
guide to understanding research
studies and the safety measures in place
to protect those who participate.
Visitors to the site can register as
potential volunteers through a secure
login process. When a new trial opens that
matches a user's interests, the system will
send an e-mail.
People who register are under no obligation
to participate. If they are interested in
enrolling in a study, they would be required to undergo screening to ensure they meet
eligibility requirements.
"I would encourage all patients to visit UMClinicalStudies.org to familiarize
themselves with the clinical studies that
are available," Hussain said. "Ultimately,
of course, the decision to participate is one
that must be made in cooperation with
a patient's doctor. But this is a good way
to start a conversation about whether a
clinical trial is right for you."
To learn more about clinical
trials, call the Cancer AnswerLine™ at 800-865-1125 or talk
with your doctor.
