Pancreatic cancer patients who participate in clinical research have better outcomes. Every treatment available today was approved through a clinical trial. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network strongly recommends clinical trials at diagnosis and during every treatment decision.

It is important to be informed about what is involved when you are considering a clinical trial, as with any treatment option. Here are some questions to ask your healthcare team about a clinical trial you are considering:

  1. What is the purpose of the trial?
  2. What will I have to do if I participate?
  3. Why do researchers believe the new treatment being studied may be effective?
  4. How is a participant’s safety checked?
  5. How often and for how long will I receive the treatment?
  6. How do the benefits and risks of the trial compare with benefits and risks of other treatment options?
  7. What treatment does each study arm receive?
  8. Will I know if I am taking the experimental treatment?
  9. Who will be in charge of my care? Will I be able to see my own doctor?
  10. Is there any pain or other side effect associated with the therapies, tests or procedures? If so, how severe, and how long will the pain or side effects last? How can I best control side effects while I am participating in the trial?
Contact a Patient Central Associate
For nearly 30 more questions to ask about clinical trials as well as additional clinical trials information, order our free Patient Education Packet, which includes our booklet, Clinical Trials: Understanding How Pancreatic Cancer Clinical Trials Work.

You can also view our list of Clinical Trials Frequently Asked Questions for more information and resources.