The UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center offers clinical trials, or research studies, for patients battling cancer. In a clinical trial, doctors test cancer treatments in the hopes the treatment will work and become a mainstream method of fighting cancer and helping cancer patients. Recent successful clinical trials have resulted in improved treatments for breast, colon, lung, prostate, kidney and childhood cancers, helping those fighting the disease live longer lives.

Through the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) research collaborations, UAB doctors can work with doctors in other comprehensive cancer centers around the country to test cancer treatments and create clinical trials. In these clinical trials, scientists have moved research they think could have promising results from the laboratory, and will test these treatments on people battling cancer.

Patients who take part in a clinical trial will receive treatment at one of UAB’s state-of-the-art medical facilities, and will have their progress closely monitored by our superior medical professionals. While the number of doctor visits and tests might be greater than those for traditional treatment, the benefits of a clinical trial treatment could outweigh those of traditional treatment. However, clinical trials may come with drawbacks as well, so it is important to have a conversation with your doctor about the treatment and its pros and cons, as well as whether you are an ideal candidate. Some clinical trials have guidelines with regards to gender, age or type of cancer.

Comprehensive Cancer Center Clinical Trials