Participating in a clinical trial is a significant decision for anyone diagnosed with cancer. Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Understanding who can participate in these trials is crucial for patients and their families, as well as for healthcare providers who guide patients through their treatment options.

All clinical trials have eligibility criteria to ensure the new drugs are only given to the appropriate patients. The factors that allow you to participate in a clinical trial can include age, gender, the type and stage of your disease, previous treatment history and other medical conditions. Following eligibility criteria helps us keep you safe and ensures that researchers learn the information they need. Your Minnesota Oncology provider will be able to discuss the eligibility criteria with you to make sure you are informed and can make the best decision for your care.

Eligibility Criteria for Clinical Trials

Clinical trials have specific eligibility criteria that participants must meet. These criteria are designed to ensure the safety of participants and the integrity of the study. Common eligibility factors include:

1. Type and Stage of Cancer: Clinical trials often focus on particular types or stages of cancer. For example, a trial might be designed specifically for patients with stage II breast cancer.

2. Previous Treatments: Some trials may require that participants have undergone specific treatments, while others may exclude those who have received certain therapies. This helps researchers assess the new treatment's effectiveness in various scenarios.

3. Age and Gender: Certain trials may have age or gender requirements, depending on the nature of the study. For instance, a trial for prostate cancer would typically only include male participants.

4. Overall Health: Participants are usually required to be in a certain range of overall health. Trials may exclude individuals with other serious health conditions that could interfere with the study results or the participant's safety.

5. Genetic Factors: Some trials might focus on individuals with specific genetic markers or mutations linked to cancer, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations in breast and ovarian cancer.

The Importance of Diversity in Clinical Trials

Diversity in clinical trials is crucial for developing treatments that are effective across different populations. Historically, clinical trials have lacked diversity, leading to gaps in understanding how treatments work in various demographic groups. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other organizations have emphasized the need for inclusivity in clinical trials to ensure that findings are applicable to the broader population.

Diverse clinical trials consider factors such as race, ethnicity, age, and gender. This inclusivity helps identify different responses to treatments and side effects, ultimately leading to more personalized and effective cancer care.

Finding Clinical Trials

Cancer research is no longer conducted exclusively at large university cancer centers or major metropolitan hospitals. Community-based oncology practices such as Minnesota Oncology play a critical role in the development of new treatment options for patients. Minnesota Oncology physicians believe clinical trials are an important component of cancer care and are crucial for improving cancer treatment.

Our collaboration with Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI), one of the world’s leading oncology research organizations conducting community-based clinical trials, offers our patients early access to the latest in leading-edge treatments without having to leave the Twin Cities region. Clinical trials available at Minnesota Oncology.

Patients interested in participating in clinical trials can consult the following additional resources to find studies that match their eligibility including: ClinicalTrials.gov, cancer centers and research institutions and patient advocacy groups.

Participating in a clinical trial can offer access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancing cancer research. Understanding the eligibility criteria and the importance of diversity in these studies is essential for making informed decisions. Patients are encouraged to discuss clinical trial options with their healthcare providers and utilize available resources to find suitable studies.

Sources:

• National Institutes of Health (NIH): [NIH Clinical Research Trials and You](https://www.nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you)
• ClinicalTrials.gov: [Clinical Trials Database](https://clinicaltrials.gov/)
• American Cancer Society: [Clinical Trials: What You Need to Know](https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/clinical-trials.html)
• Cancer Research Institute: [Understanding Cancer Clinical Trials](https://www.cancerresearch.org/en-us/clinical-trials)