How Clinical Trials Can Help Breast Cancer Patients

 
The average American woman has roughly a 12 percent chance of developing breast cancer in her lifetime. Many times, standard medical treatments such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery help. When they don’t, however, options are still available thanks to ongoing, cutting-edge research.

You can learn more during Abington Health’s live web chat with Dr. Mark L. Sundermeyer, today at 12 pm: The Latest Advancements in Breast Cancer Treatment.

Clinical trials are a way of testing new research to find safe and effective treatments for patients who may not respond to the traditional methods. Abington Health conducts more than 100 clinical research studies each year, often in conjunction with groups such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute (NCI), and assorted cancer research groups. There are, however, pros and cons to consider before enrolling in one.

Not every patient who participates in a clinical trial will receive the experimental new treatment, since some are needed as a “control group.” And there’s no guarantee that a new treatment will be any more effective than the care you are already receiving. Regardless, patients will receive the best standard of care, and if the trial is successful, may benefit from a new treatment that helps keep their cancer in remission longer, treats their symptoms, or improves their quality of life. Clinical trials also give them the opportunity to be part of the process of finding a cure.

It’s best to gather all the information about a particular trial before you enroll. Current and recent cancer clinical trials are listed on the Abington Health website and additional trials become available every month. If you’re interested, your healthcare provider can discuss specific trials that might be appropriate for your diagnosis, and provide information on the enrollment process.

For more information on breast cancer tune in to Abington Health’s live web chat with oncologist Dr. Mark L. Sundermeyer, today at 12 pm:  The Latest Advancements in Breast Cancer Treatment.  Watch the live stream here.