Information resources about clinical trials
launched for patients and the public
1st November 2007
The UKCRC has
launched a new leaflet,
Clinical trials: what they are and what
they’re not to introduce clinical trials to patients and the
public. The leaflet accompanies the
Understanding Clinical
Trials booklet, which provides in-depth information on the
design and conduct of clinical trials and aims to answer the
questions of those considering taking part.
The booklet and leaflet were developed to
strengthen the information available about clinical trials in the
UK. A wide range of information resources on clinical trials are
available. However, most are focused on specific areas of health
and disease such as cancer or mental health and are not easily
adaptable for use in other areas.
The new resources provide clear and
standardised information about the different types of clinical
trial that are carried out in the UK. It is hoped that the
publications will become key sources of information for patients
and the public about trials as well as being an important resource
for healthcare professionals.
The information leaflet, Clinical trials:
what they are and what they’re not, answers some of the common
questions people have about clinical trials, including: Why do
we need to do them? Are they safe? Are they just about drug
companies making profits? Aren’t people who take part just
‘human guinea pigs’?
The booklet, Understanding Clinical
Trials, give more detailed explanation of what clinical trials
are and how they are set up and run. It provides the type of
information people need when considering taking part in a clinical
trial and includes examples of questions people may wish to ask
before making a decision to participate.
The leaflet and booklet are available in both electronic and
printed formats. Copies can be downloaded from the UKCRC
website, and printed copies can be requested from the UK
Clinical Research Network by emailing info@ukcrn.org.uk
Link to full
press release
Link to UKCRC public awareness web page