Clinical trials are studies that help researchers test new or improved medicines, procedures, or treatments for mesothelioma. There are many different types of clinical trials for mesothelioma as well as other serious illnesses. The type is defined by the primary purpose of the research, which fall into the following categories:
Test experimental treatments, new combinations of drugs, or new approaches to surgery or radiation therapy.
Look for better ways to prevent disease in people who have never had the disease or to prevent a disease from returning. These approaches may include medicines, vaccines, vitamins, minerals, or lifestyle changes.
Find new or improved tests and procedures for diagnosing a particular disease or condition.
Test the best way to detect certain diseases or health conditions.
Explore ways to improve comfort and the quality of life for individuals with a chronic illness. They are also referred to as supportive care trials.
To get a quick snapshot of the different phases of clinical trials for mesothelioma, see our Clinical Trial Phases chart. To get a more in-depth understanding of clinical trials, read our Overview of Clinical Trials. Share this information with your medical team and seek their advice about which clinical trials are currently available that you would qualify to participate in. Once you have this information, investigate which type of trial is the best fit for you. To find out more about participating in a clinical trial, please visit the National Cancer Institute for complete listings of current studies being conducted.