What are clinical trials? They are controlled tests of new drugs, medical devices or treatments to determine their value in mitigating severe health conditions like mesothelioma.
Unfortunately, you cannot know in advance if enrolling in a trial will lead to a beneficial treatment for your condition. Still, there are a few other reasons to consider participation.
Help future generations
New medical products must undergo testing to ensure safety and gain U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. Without patient volunteers, scientists cannot develop new therapies to combat mesothelioma. Your participation can lead to treatments that help other patients cope with their symptoms better and perhaps even live longer.
Feel healthier
Whether the treatment undergoing tests makes it to the public market, it could help alleviate some of your symptoms. Relief alone is reason enough to consider a clinical trial for those with excruciating pain and other effects. Since most trials administer placebos to half of the test group, there is a 50/50 chance you might not receive the actual treatment.
Other considerations
Before enrolling in a trial, speak with your legal counsel to ensure participation will not damage your mesothelioma case.
Other considerations:
Travel. Look for a trial close to home if your health condition makes travel difficult.
Expenses. Many mesothelioma trials offer free participation, but you may face travel, housing and food costs.
Risks. Always read the fine print that explains the risks and potential benefits of clinical trials.
As you know, living with mesothelioma is not easy for you or your loved ones and may lead to significant economic hardships. If you haven’t already, learn more about the mesothelioma compensation options available to Louisiana residents suffering from an asbestos-related illness.