How can I learn about stem cell clinical trials?
Remember that clinical trials have strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to help ensure the safety of participants and to make sure that researchers will be able to answer their research question. To join a trial, you must meet these criteria, which may include factors like your age, general health, stage or severity of disease, and treatment history.
Credible clinical trials will have ethical and regulatory oversight and provide participants with clear details about what is involved and an informed consent form.
Different clinical trials are offered at different institutions around the world. Here are some resources to help you find active clinical trials:
Ask your primary care physician or medical specialist for advice on what clinical trials are available in your area for your specific disease or condition.
Teaching hospitals and academic research centers. If you live near a university that has a teaching hospital and/or a research center, you may be able to find appropriate trials there. Search online (the name of the institution and “clinical trials”) to see what may be available and to find contact information.
Patient and disease advocacy groups. These groups sometimes sponsor clinical trials, and many of them have referral services to help people find trials.
There are databases that allow you to search for registered clinical trials.
Interested persons may search a database of clinical trials sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (US) at ClinicalTrials.gov
International Clinical Trials Registry offered by the World Health Organization provides a single point of access to several national trials registries. The site provides information in English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese and Russian and offers tips to narrow your search more effectively.
However, it is important to note that not all clinical trials are included in these databases, nor does the inclusion of a trial in a database indicate it is approved or cleared to proceed by a regulatory body.
Remember, clinical trials are not right for everyone. Think carefully about what you hope to gain, and then look for trials that align with your goals and expectations. Remember that not all clinical trials are created equal. Ask a lot of questions, compare options, and seek input from your healthcare providers.
