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Understanding the Importance of Clinical Trials in Cancer Care

In a recent webinar hosted by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®), top oncology experts delved into the vital role clinical trials play in cancer treatment and patient outcomes. Titled "Why Should I Consider a Clinical Trial?", this informative session aimed to demystify the often misunderstood aspects of clinical trials and empower cancer patients with knowledge about their options.

Why Clinical Trials Matter

Clinical trials are essential in advancing medical science and improving treatment efficacy for cancer patients. However, misconceptions and lack of awareness about their purpose, benefits, and accessibility often deter patients from considering them. The NCCN Foundation aims to bridge this gap by providing clear, factual information and encouraging broader participation in these critical studies.

During the webinar, Ann Fish-Steagal, RN, BSN, Vice President of Patient Services at LUNGevity, emphasized, "Every standard treatment we have today is a result of the courage of patients participating in clinical trials combined with the ingenuity of scientists. Clinical trials offer the medical community a platform to further research and improve treatment options for everyone."

Patrick Delaney, Executive Director of the NCCN Foundation, highlighted the necessity of educating patients about how to access clinical trials: "We aim to equip individuals with knowledge, dispel misunderstandings, and make the process feel less intimidating. The diversity of participants in clinical trials is crucial for ensuring new therapies are effective across various demographics. Our webinar emphasizes the importance of inclusive participation and explores how all populations can engage easily."

Key Takeaways from the Webinar

The expert panel discussed several critical questions regarding clinical trials:

• - What is the purpose of cancer clinical trials? Clinical trials are designed to evaluate new treatments, interventions or screenings and to ensure their effectiveness and safety for patients.
• - What role do these trials play in cancer treatment, including the associated risks and benefits? Trials provide vital information on the efficacy of new therapies versus existing options and often allow patients access to cutting-edge treatments.
• - How can one access cancer clinical trials? Resources like NCCN.org/patientwebinars offer insights into current clinical trials available, eligibility criteria, and contacts for further inquiries.

Tiffany Colvin, CCRP, Senior Director of Clinical Trial Operations at Fred Hutch Cancer Center, also contributed to the discussion, stressing the commitment of all those involved in conducting clinical trials. She stated, "Without collaboration, we cannot provide the most current and best available treatment options. During these trials, we are responsible for transparency, quality, safety, and integrity. With the support of specialized research teams, these trials allow patients early access to potentially life-saving treatments."

Supporting Diverse Participation

The webinar, which aired on February 28, is supported by leading pharmaceutical companies including AstraZeneca, Daiichi Sankyo, Genentech, Inc., and GSK. The NCCN has long championed the importance of clinical trial participation in its Clinical Practice Guidelines, which serve as evidence-based recommendations for guiding cancer care decisions worldwide. Each guideline emphasizes: "NCCN recognizes the importance of clinical trials and encourages participation wherever applicable and available. The design of trials should maximize their inclusiveness and broad representation."

For more information on NCCN's free patient resources, including award-winning literature and webinars, visit NCCN.org/Patients.

About NCCN and NCCN Foundation

The NCCN is a non-profit alliance of leading cancer centers dedicated to improving cancer care, research, and education. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, NCCN strives to define and enhance the quality of cancer treatment to make it effective, equitable, and accessible for all patients. Their guidelines are recognized as the standard for clinical decision-making in cancer management.

The NCCN Foundation empowers cancer patients and caregivers by providing unbiased expert guidance through resources such as the NCCN Guidelines for Patients. The Foundation also funds promising young researchers at the forefront of national cancer research to improve treatment methodologies. For more information about the NCCN Foundation, please visit nccnfoundation.org.