About clinical trials

Clinical trials are designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a potential new treatment, varying treatment combinations or methods of delivery to determine whether they are better than current treatments.

In 2006, approximately 1660 new patients were enrolled in cancer clinical trials and a further 6130 patients, entered on trials in previous years, received continuing follow-up at 18 cancer treatment centres in Victoria. This activity represents an estimated six per cent of patients diagnosed with cancer were enrolled in cancer trials in Victoria, which compares very favourably against clinical trial participation in other Australian states.

By taking part in a clinical trial, cancer patients can play an important role in furthering cancer research. Clinical trials: information for people having cancer treatment, was produced to assist people with their decision making process when offered clinical trial participation for treatment of their cancer.

There are many cancer trials being conducted within Victoria's hospitals. Information on clinical trials being conducted in Victoria and around Australia can be obtained from individual cancer treatment centres.


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Updated June 2007.