Cancer clinical trials test new treatments — including drugs, immunotherapies, radiation techniques, surgical approaches, and combinations of existing treatments. For many cancer patients, clinical trials offer access to promising therapies that are not yet widely available. This guide covers what cancer patients should know about clinical trials, when to consider one, and how to navigate the process.
Why Cancer Trials Matter
Every cancer treatment in use today — from chemotherapy to immunotherapy to targeted therapy — was first tested in a clinical trial. Trials are how the medical community advances cancer care.
For patients, trials can provide access to new drugs and approaches before they are approved for general use. Some trials test entirely new compounds, while others test new combinations of existing drugs or new ways to deliver established treatments. In many cases, trial participants receive treatment at major cancer centres with specialised oncology teams.
When to Consider a Cancer Trial
You might consider a clinical trial if:
• Standard treatments have not worked or have stopped working
• Your cancer type has limited approved treatment options
• You want access to a newer therapy before it reaches the market
• Your oncologist recommends it as a reasonable next step
• You have been newly diagnosed and want to explore all available options early
Timing matters. Some trials are designed for patients who have not yet started any treatment (first-line trials), while others are for patients who have already tried one or more treatments (second-line or later). Discussing trials with your oncologist early — ideally at diagnosis or at each treatment decision point — gives you the most options.
Types of Cancer Trials
Treatment trials test new drugs, drug combinations, or treatment approaches. These are the most common type.
Prevention trials test new ways to reduce the risk of cancer in people who have not been diagnosed.
Screening trials evaluate new methods of detecting cancer earlier.
Supportive care (or palliative care) trials test ways to improve quality of life and manage symptoms or side effects of treatment.
Biomarker trials study how to use biological markers (such as genetic mutations) to guide treatment decisions — this is the foundation of precision oncology.
Understanding Randomisation and Control Groups
Many cancer trials are randomised, meaning participants are assigned to different treatment groups by chance. This might mean receiving the new treatment, the current standard treatment, or (rarely in cancer trials) a placebo.
In cancer trials, placebos are almost never used alone. If a standard treatment exists, the control group receives the standard treatment — not nothing. Some trial designs use a placebo added to standard treatment versus standard treatment alone.
Before enrolling, the research team will explain the study design and the probability of being assigned to each group.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I receive a placebo instead of cancer treatment?
In cancer clinical trials, placebos are almost never used as the sole treatment. If an effective standard therapy exists, the control group typically receives that standard therapy. Some trials add a placebo to standard treatment in the control group, but participants still receive active cancer treatment.
Can my oncologist help me find a trial?
Yes. Many oncologists are aware of relevant trials and can refer you to studies at their institution or elsewhere. Major cancer centres have clinical trial offices specifically designed to match patients with appropriate studies. You can also search registries like ClinicalTrialsFinder.org or ClinicalTrials.gov.
Do I have to pay for treatment in a cancer trial?
The investigational treatment and study-related tests are typically provided at no cost. Some trials cover additional expenses like travel. However, routine medical care and tests you would need regardless of the trial may still be billed to your insurance. Ask the study team about costs before enrolling.
What if the trial treatment does not work for me?
If the study treatment is not effective for you, the research team will discuss next steps. You can withdraw from the trial at any time and pursue other treatments. Your participation in the trial does not prevent you from receiving other therapies afterward.