Clinical Trials Offer Mesothelioma Patients Breakthrough Treatment Options
Malignant mesothelioma clinical trials continue to be one of the best options for patients struggling to find a new, effective treatment. Offered through hospitals and medical research institutions, the trials test new methods of screening, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of the disease. They also provide researchers with critical information needed to allow them to move their findings from the lab to the patients.
Mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer of the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart, is a disease being fought internationally, and clinical trials are offered throughout the world. According to clinicaltrials.gov, there are currently 30 open studies for malignant mesothelioma being conducted worldwide. Trial sites include the United States, Canada, Belgium, France, Germany and Italy.
Mesothelioma is highly aggressive and is resistant to many cancer treatments. The prognosis for mesothelioma patients is usually grim: the average survival time varies from 4 – 18 months after diagnosis. For the close to 3,000 Americans diagnosed with the disease each year, clinical trials may offer them a breakthrough treatment not yet available through their physician.
In a report published by the Intercultural Cancer Council less than 5% of the over 10 million adults with cancer in the United States participate in clinical trials. They found that two of the primary reasons include lack of awareness of studies and mistrust of the research. Education of the clinical trial process is one way to allay their fears and expand participation in the trial process.
US clinical trials are closely monitored and are run according to strict guidelines. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) explains that federally funded clinical research has safeguards in place to protect the participants, including explaining to the participants:
- What will happen during a study including eligibility criteria, evaluations and all procedures to be performed;
- The possible risks, benefits, alternatives, and responsibilities of the clinical trial are explained thoroughly to patients before they agree to participate;
- That a clinical study is reviewed by an independent review board prior to the start to ensure that potential risks are clearly stated, and that investigators take sufficient and appropriate measures to address risks before the study proceeds;
- The study will be closely monitored once it is underway by an independent committee for safety and conformation to the study documents;
- That their privacy will be protected; and
- The study will be ethical and will follow international and federal “good clinical practices” guidelines.
If someone is suffering from mesothelioma, they should check with their physician to determine if any current studies exist for their particular case. The NIH adds that for “study participants with complex illnesses, ‘protected’ does not mean ‘risk-free’—all studies carry some risk.” When determining if you should participate in a trial it is important to work with your medical team to determine if the benefits outweigh any risks.
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