Another Option: Clinical Trials

A blood cancer diagnosis typically leads one to an oncologist or hematologist, a cancer center and a conversation about available treatment options. One option that is not always presented is that of being part of a research study.

Clinical trials are carefully controlled studies of new or existing drugs, conducted by doctors. Researchers are trying to find ways to increase the effectiveness or decrease the side effects of treatment. A treatment that is proven safe and effective in a clinical trial often goes on to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is how new lifesaving treatments are brought to market.

Through participation in a clinical trial, a patient can gain early access to an experimental therapy that may be more effective than standard treatments. Trials may also provide an alternative for someone unable to undergo a recommended procedure (such as a transplant).