Clinical Research
The dramatic progress that has been made in
treating cancer over the past three decades has
predominantly come from rigid scientific research,
including the testing of new medications and
procedures. These clinical trials are designed
to identify new, more effective therapies.
The
patients who participate in these investigative
studies gain access to the very latest changes
in cancer care developed by the nation's foremost
cancer specialists. Only after both governmental
and institutional committees review new treatments
will they be tested in people. This group of
reviewers includes both scientists and non-scientists
who concur on the potential validity of these
studies.
As a member of the University of Pennsylvania
Cancer Network, the Joan Karnell Cancer Center
at Pennsylvania Hospital participates in a large
body of clinical trials. These include studies
that are sponsored by the Eastern Cooperative
Oncology Group (ECOG), one of the largest cancer
research organizations in the United States.
The Karnell Cancer Center is also involved in
studies developed by the Abramson Cancer Center
Clinical Trials Group, a clinical research organization
of the University of Pennsylvania Cancer Network.
In addition, we participate in Phase I, II, and
III studies initiated by a number of pharmaceutical
organizations.
Patients interested in participating in clinical
research should talk with their doctors. Pennsylvania
Hospital oncologists are leaders in providing
patients access to these new therapeutic modalities.
In addition to the clinical trials conducted
at the Karnell Cancer Center patients have access
to a number of other studies available at the
Abramson Cancer Center.
For more information on clinical trials and
why they are important to the future of cancer
care visit www.nci.nih.gov/clinicaltrials/.
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