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COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS Clinical trials create many inroads in the fight against cancer. But enrollment is not nearly as high as it could be. Lack of education and inaccurate information produces unsubstantiated fears about the trials which can often lead to a resistance to participate among cancer patients. Following is a list of some of the more common misconceptions that surround clinical trials and some accurate information that should help allay these fears and lead to greater patient participation. Myth: Clinical trials are by nature a risky undertaking. Fact: Clinical trials are another form of treatment often available to patients, but patients often times do not know of the option. Trials are closely monitored by the doctors and caregivers – as well an Institutional Review Board assigned to each trial – and details and data are carefully documented. This close scrutiny frequently results in better treatment than a patient may receive off trial with more conventional treatment. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Myth: Clinical trials are highly experimental and patients are treated like “guinea pigs” Fact: Clinical trials generally incorporate the best available medicine and then add to it or adjust it to see if enhancements can be made to improve the quality of life of patients or improve their response rates. In addition, the overwhelming majority of patients, when polled, feel they were treated fairly, with respect and dignity. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Myth: Sugar pills, or “placebos” are used often in clinical trials rather than actual medicine. Fact: Clinical trials afford patients with the best treatment or offer the opportunity to receive a new treatment. Placebos are rarely used in treatment trials. On the rare occasions when placebos are incorporated into a trial, they never replace actual treatment. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Myth: Health insurance doesn’t cover treatment costs for patients on clinical trials. Fact: All treatment coverage, whether trials or conventional, varies dependent upon insurance carriers; however, the majority of insurers cover treatment costs on cancer clinical trials. Always check with your doctor to discuss coverage of your particular case. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Myth: Medicare does not cover treatment costs for patients on clinical trials. Fact: Since June 2000, Medicare has covered the cost of treatment trials. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Myth: Clinical trials are only offered in large hospitals. Fact: Cancer trials are becoming more and more prevalent in an increasing amount of communities in local hospitals. Local cancer clinics and doctor's offices also offer some trials.
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