Does a medical oncology perform clinical trials?

Availability depends on the cancer type, treatment setting, eligibility criteria and which trials are open at a centre.

A clinical trial follows a written plan that defines who may join, what treatment is given, what checks are required and how safety is monitored. An oncologist first compares those criteria with your diagnosis, previous treatment, health and test results.

The team explains the available options, possible burdens and known uncertainties before asking for consent. Joining is voluntary, and choosing not to participate should not prevent discussion of standard care options.

Ask for the participant information in a form and language you understand. Review the visit schedule, tests, travel needs, treatment alternatives and whom to contact between appointments before deciding.

Provide accurate information about medicines, previous treatments and other health conditions. If you enrol, follow the dosing and appointment instructions closely and report new symptoms promptly, including symptoms that seem unrelated to the treatment.

Use the trial team's urgent contact number for fever, infection symptoms, persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, unusual bleeding, a new rash, worsening pain or any sudden deterioration. The exact warning signs depend on the treatment, so follow the safety instructions provided to you.

Emergency services are appropriate for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, collapse, confusion, seizure or swelling affecting the mouth or throat. Tell emergency clinicians that you are receiving treatment in a clinical trial.

Find out why the trial may suit your cancer, what treatment you might receive, what is already known about its effects and which alternatives are available outside the trial.

Clarify extra visits and tests, how privacy is handled, what happens if you wish to leave, and how care would continue if the trial treatment is stopped.