Cancer clinical trials are often misunderstood. Some people think they’re only for patients who have run out of treatment options. Or that doctors treat patients like guinea pigs. Or that insurance companies hit patients with huge medical bills for uncovered services.
None of these statements are true. Ulka Vaishampayan, M.D., director of Karmanos Cancer Institute’s Phase I Program, sets the record straight on some of the more common clinical trial myths:
Myth #1 – Clinical trials are for people with no other treatment options
“It’s important that all patients consider participating in a clinical trial as early as possible in their care plan. Patients in trials have access to the latest treatment options that would otherwise not be available.”
Myth #2 – Patients may receive sugar pills without their knowledge
“Trials do not involve placebos unless there is a valid reason to use one in that setting. Under regulatory standards, patients know up-front about the medications they’ll likely be taking.”
Myth #3 – Insurance doesn’t cover clinical trials
“Most insurance plans are required to cover clinical trials. This often includes medications and testing that would normally be billed to the patient under standard treatment. Patient consent forms detail what clinical trials cover and what’s billed to insurance.”
Myth #4 – I’ll be treated like a guinea pig
Cancer care always involves a certain amount of trial and error. What works for one patient may not work for another. The same is true for clinical trials, although we monitor patients in trials very closely for side effects. Of course, patient safety is our top priority and we always treat patients very respectfully.”
Myth #5 – I have to live near a major hospital to participate
“Trials are available to patients throughout the Karmanos network. We also frequently work with local hospitals, clinics and community physicians to provide input on potential trials for their patients. With all trials, we communicate closely with treating physicians to monitor patient progress.”
Myth #6 – Once you sign up, you’re stuck
“Patients can withdraw from a clinical trial at any time for any reason. Then patients can switch to standard treatment for their condition.”
In reality, patients who opt for clinical trials help create better cancer outcomes, Dr. Vaishampayan says.
“These patients are not only opting for the best possible care, they’re also helping future cancer patients,” she says. “Trials are the only way researchers can create new and better treatment options and make progress against this disease.”
PARTICIPATE IN A TRIAL
Clinical trials available through the Karmanos network, which includes 1 sites throughout Michigan, examine new cancer-fighting drugs, surgical methods, diagnostic tests or prevention methods.
Trials are currently open for breast, gynecologic, lung, pancreatic, prostate and rectal cancers, as well as brain metastases, multiple myeloma and a biobank protocol, where researchers collect diseased tissue for study.
To learn if a clinical trial is right for you, call 1-800-KARMANOS (1-800-527-6266).