Clinical Research Trials

Sanford Cancer Center participates in cancer clinical trials with focus on developing new strategies for the prevention, detection, treatment, and overall improvement of the care and quality of life for people with cancer or people at high risk for developing cancer.

Sanford Clinic Clinical Research Services

At Sanford Health, and nationwide, research continues to be the primary path to finding new treatments and cures for cancer. Sanford Clinic Clinical Research Services oversees the operation of over 250 clinical trials which focus on developing new strategies for the prevention, detection, treatment, and overall improvement of the care and quality of life for people with cancer or people at high risk for developing cancer. With 170 patients enrolled in a clinical research trial during the year, Sanford Health demonstrates its commitment to the pursuit of curative and preventive strategies to combat disease.

Choosing to participate in a clinical trial is an important personal decision. The following frequently asked questions provide detailed information about clinical trials. In addition, it is often helpful to talk to a physician, family members, or friends about deciding to join a trial. After identifying some trial options, the next step is to contact the study research staff and ask questions about specific trials.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial (also clinical research) is a research study in human volunteers to answer specific health questions. Carefully conducted clinical trials are the fastest and safest way to find treatments that work in people and ways to improve health.

Why participate in a clinical trial?

Participants in clinical trials can play a more active role in their own health care, gain access to new research treatments before they are widely available, and help others by contributing to medical research.

What are the different types of clinical trials?

• Treatment trials test experimental treatments, new combinations of drugs, or new approaches to surgery or radiation therapy.
• Prevention trials 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, vitamins, vaccines, minerals, or lifestyle changes.
• Diagnostic trials are conducted to find better tests or procedures for diagnosing a particular disease or condition.
• Screening trials test the best way to detect certain diseases or health conditions.
• Quality of Life trials (or Supportive Care trials) explore ways to improve comfort and the quality of life for individuals with a chronic illness.

Sanford Clinic Clinical Research Services is seeking participants for clinical trials in the following areas: