Types of Clinical Trials
Types of Clinical Trials
Types of Clinical Trials, summarised
The table below summarises the different types of clinical trials.
Some research studies include different types of clinical trials, so they don’t always fit neatly into just one category.
| Trial Type | What is it testing? |
|---|---|
| Treatment trial | New treatments or new ways of using existing treatments (e.g. medicines, surgery) |
| Prevention trial | Ways to prevent cancer or reduce the risk of it returning (e.g. lifestyle changes, medicines, vaccines) |
| Early detection and screening trial | New ways to detect cancer earlier, even before symptoms appear |
| Quality of Life (QoL) trial | Improvements in comfort and wellbeing during and after cancer treatment (e.g. managing pain, side effects, and providing emotional support) |
| Genetic trial | How genetics affect cancer and treatment responses |
| Observation trial | Tracks people receiving treatment to learn more about long-term effects and cancer progression |
If you’re interested in a clinical trial, your doctor can help guide you to the right one based on your situation. Always talk to your doctor and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
For more information about joining Clinical Trials, visit our page here.
While research is promising, not every trial treatment works ...
Many ovarian cancer clinical trials are still in the early stages. Not every trial leads to a new and/or better treatment. However, it’s important to know that the current standard treatments for ovarian cancer are based on the success of many past trials.
New trials and their availability can vary depending on where you live. You may not be able to access certain trials in your area. However, ongoing research and clinical trials means there is always hope for better treatments in the future.
Understanding Randomised Control Trials (RCTs)
Randomised Control Trials (RCTs), summarised
RCTs are research studies that help find out which treatments work best by randomly assigning participants to different groups.
Participants in these trials are either given the new treatment or the current standard treatment.
Randomising helps eliminate bias and ensures the results are fair.
Blinding means that you and/or the doctors know which treatment you’re getting, to avoid bias.
Clinical trials are a crucial step in improving treatments for ovarian cancer.
They allow researchers to learn which treatments work best and offer hope for better care in the future.
