What is a cancer trial?
A cancer clinical trial is a research study conducted to evaluate new ways to prevent, diagnose, or treat cancer. These studies are an integrated part of modern cancer care and are essential for determining if a new treatment is safe and more effective than the current standard of care.
For many people with cancer in Ireland, a trial provides an opportunity to access innovative treatments that are not yet available as a routine medical option.
Why trials are conducted
Clinical trials are designed to answer specific scientific questions. These studies help medical professionals find better ways to:
Detect cancer at the earliest possible stage.
Treat cancer using new drug therapies or advanced radiotherapy.
Prevent cancer from returning after initial treatment.
Improve the quality of life for those living with a diagnosis.
Understanding the process
It is common for patients and their families to have questions when a trial is first mentioned. Understanding the reality of how trials work can help in making an informed decision.
A trial is not a “last resort” Trials are available at many different stages of a diagnosis. While some look at advanced stages of the disease, many others are conducted at the very beginning of treatment, such as testing a new surgical technique or a more effective combination of chemotherapy.
Participants are partners in research There is sometimes a concern that participating in a trial means being treated like a “guinea pig.” In reality, trials are highly regulated. Every participant is a voluntary partner in research and receives a high standard of medical care. In most cases, participants are monitored more closely and more frequently by their medical team than they would be during standard treatment.
How trials are managed
In Ireland, trials are conducted within a structured environment in hospital-based Cancer Clinical Trials Units (CCTUs).
Each trial is led by a National Lead Investigator (NLI), a senior consultant who oversees the study across the country. Specialised groups of doctors and scientists, known as Disease Specific Sub-Groups (DSSGs), help select which trials are most relevant for people with cancer in Ireland.
The Sponsor (the organisation responsible for the trial) ensures that the study follows strict national and EU regulations. These trials are also reviewed by the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) and independent ethics committees.
Your participation
Taking part in a trial is entirely voluntary. A person with cancer in Ireland can choose to join a trial after discussing it with their consultant, and they are free to withdraw from the study at any time and for any reason.
Resources and Next Steps
Find a Trial: Use our search tool to see the trials currently open for accrual across our national network. [Search our Open Trials]
Hear from Participants: Watch short videos of people with cancer in Ireland sharing their personal experiences of taking part in a trial. [Watch Patient Stories]
The Cancer Trials Ireland Podcast: Join us for “straight-talking” conversations with patients, doctors, and experts about the reality of clinical research in Ireland. [Listen to the Podcast]
Help and Support: Our funders, the Irish Cancer Society are an excellent source of information and support on all aspects of your cancer journey. [Connect with the Irish Cancer Society]
Just Ask: If you are interested in a trial, the best first step is to speak to your consultant or research nurse at your next appointment.
Together, we’re finding answers to cancer.