For many people, facing a cancer diagnosis can feel uncertain and overwhelming. However, advances in oncology are offering new hope every day, and one of the most promising pathways are clinical trials. These carefully designed clinical research studies are at the leading edge of cancer innovation, which allow oncologists to compare new treatments against current proven therapies. Conducting clinical trials leads to new treatments being approved and in turn, better patient outcomes.
So, what are clinical trials exactly? How do they fit into the world of oncology? And why is participating in one an option for some patients?
What is oncology and what’s an oncologist?
Oncology is the sector of medicine that is dedicated to diagnosing, treating, preventing and researching cancer. Through continuous medical research and the integration of advanced medical techniques, oncologists aim to provide the most effective and personalised care for each individual cancer patient.
Oncologists are healthcare providers who specialise in oncology. When you are diagnosed with cancer, you will discuss the steps of your treatment with your oncologist. See our team page to get to know our oncologist team.
What is a clinical trial in oncology?
A clinical trial is a medical research study involving human participants, designed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of new medical treatments. These can include surgical procedures, drugs (medication) or in some cases lifestyle changes.
In oncology, clinical studies are crucial for testing new cancer treatments and therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, immunotherapy and targeted treatments.
Every approved cancer treatment available today has had to undergo rigorous testing through clinical trials. Without clinical trials, advancements in oncology and treating cancer would not be possible.
The types of clinical trials in oncology
Pre-clinical testing: This is done to find out how well a drug works, how the body processes it, and whether it causes harm. Only when this work is completed with a satisfactory outcome will the drug move into human clinical trials. Our trial invesigators are expert medical professionals who are advancing healthcare through high-quality clinical research.
Clinical trials testing new oncology medications are generally divided into four phases:
- Phase I: Testing a new treatment in a small group to assess dosage, side effects and safety.
- Phase II: Expanding the study to more participants to evaluate safety and efficacy.
- Phase III: Comparing the new treatment against current standards of care.
- Phase IV: Conducted after the initial regulatory approval, monitoring long-term effects and real-world use.
Each phase of a clinical trial plays a significant role in advancing oncology knowledge and testing if the new treatments are safe and offer benefits over existing treatments.
Why clinical trials matter in cancer care and medical research
The field of oncology is evolving rapidly, with emerging therapies tailored to individual patients based on their genetic makeup and cancer type. Clinical trials can offer the following:
- Access to the best proven standard of care treatments
- Possibility of benefit if the trial treatment is effective
- Identify what treatments work best for specific cancers or patients, and which don’t
- Provide the data to bring new targeted and personalised therapies to market
For patients who have exhausted existing standard treatment options, a clinical trial may be an option to consider.
Who can join a clinical trial?
Eligibility for oncology clinical trials depends on various things. These can include cancer type, stage of the cancer, prior treatments, and overall health. Oncologists can help determine whether a clinical trial is a safe and appropriate option for patients.
Participating in a clinical trial is completely voluntary. Patients can withdraw at any time, and every step is taken to ensure trial participants are safe and informed about the trial.
Being a part of a trial not only contributes to global cancer research but it may also provide access to therapies not otherwise available in New Zealand. Our facilities conduct clinical trials in Newmarket, Auckland.
Common concerns
Despite their promise, clinical trials can raise concerns among patients and their families. A common concern is the uncertainty of outcomes and the risk of taking unproven medicines.
Clinical trials are designed with strict ethical standards and oversight. Informed consent is the most important part of trial participation, ensuring participants understand the risks, benefits and purpose of the study. Many trials include standard treatments rather than replacing them completely.
Finding oncology trials in New Zealand
Patients in New Zealand can find ongoing oncology clinical trials through several resources:
- Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry
- US National Library of Medicine (ClinicalTrials.gov)
- Our clinical trials page at Harbour Cancer & Wellness
Clinical trials are more than just experimental treatments
Trials are the lifeline of progress in oncology. By participating in these trials, patients and their families help pave the way for better outcomes and more hopeful futures for themselves and others going through cancer.
For more information on any of the treatments mentioned, please contact us today.
