Clinical trials: busting the myths

Myth busted:

Not true! There are trials in development for many stages of cancer. It’s important for you to know that you have the right to participate in a clinical trial at any point, from a new diagnosis through to advanced disease.

Myth busted:

Placebos, or what some people think of as a sugar pill, may be used when testing a new drug if there’s no known effective treatment but are rarely given in cancer clinical trials.

Standard-of-care treatments have already proven to be highly effective, and these options would never be withheld. When a placebo is used in cancer trials, the person will also receive the standard treatment for their specific cancer, and you’re always informed before taking part in the trial.

Myth busted:

Clinical trials could have benefits in the management of your blood cancer, and all patients are closely monitored throughout.

‘Informed consent’ takes place before joining a trial, where you’re educated on the risks, benefits and alternative treatment options. It's important to know that at any point, you have the right to withdraw your consent and leave the clinical trial without your care being affected.

Myth busted:

If a clinical trial isn’t discussed it doesn’t mean that you’re not eligible. Ask your treating doctor about clinical trials or reach out to our Clinical Trials Support Service for more information.

Myth busted:

It’s true that clinical trials have strict entry criteria or eligibility requirements. This is to ensure that you’re fit enough to receive these novel treatments or new combinations of drugs. But it’s important to know that each trial differs so there may be options out there for you.

Myth busted:

Clinical trials are of the utmost importance. The more we learn about new drugs, the better chance we have to beat blood cancer in the future. Every drug today has been developed in the same process to deliver better, safer and more effective treatments for all.