There is still no cure for mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is an illness that occurs after a person is exposed to asbestos, a dangerous substance that was widely used in the U.S. before the late 19th century. However, the good news is that several treatment options are available for mesothelioma patients, and more treatments are being researched. Usually, researchers use clinical trials to investigate more effective treatments. A clinical trial can happen at a specific cancer center or in different cancer centers across the U.S. and other countries.
If you are considering enrolling in a mesothelioma clinical trial, you are likely feeling excited and frightened at the same time. While enrolling in a clinical trial might mean receiving the best treatment and helping other mesothelioma patients, the truth is that a clinical trial is not like a regular visit to the doctor. However, if you understand what to expect, it can prepare you.
The following are some crucial things to know if you are considering a mesothelioma clinical trial.
Eligibility Requirements
Some mesothelioma patients think their doctor can grant them access to a clinical trial by preference or chance. That is not the way it works. To join a mesothelioma clinical trial, you must meet all the eligibility requirements. You must have all the inclusionary characteristics and none of the exclusionary characteristics.
Every mesothelioma clinical trial has different eligibility requirements. But some of the standard eligibility requirements include a specific mesothelioma stage, specific previous treatment, age greater than or equal to eighteen years, and specific mesothelioma type. If you are considering joining a mesothelioma clinical trial, ask your doctor to help you understand the eligibility requirements.
Providing Informed Consent
If you are considering joining a mesothelioma clinical trial, you should know that there are risks involved. Before you start a clinical trial, you must understand these risks. These risks will be provided to you in writing, and you will be required to sign the document before joining the trial. You will also need to agree to be treated according to the study protocol before you can join the clinical trial. Your doctor and the research team will guide you, and you can ask questions. If you are uncomfortable proceeding, you can refuse to participate in the clinical trial.
Undergoing Screening
If you sign the consent document, you will proceed to the screening stage. This stage involves several preliminary blood tests and imaging scans. This is done to ensure patient safety. After signing consent, the screening process can last up to four weeks.
Receiving Treatment
If it is discovered you are high risk or ineligible for the clinical trial during the screening period, your doctor will help you evaluate your other options. If you are not high-risk or ineligible, you will receive treatment prescribed by the study. During treatment, it is crucial that a patient reports side effects to their doctor or study coordinators.
Reviewing Progress
During your clinical trial, researchers will monitor you. Researchers will review your progress during the duration of the study, even after you have stopped receiving treatment. Your doctor will also review your progress in several ways.
Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment.