While many people know about lung cancer and its devastating effects, few know about the hope that clinical trials can provide for those seeking treatment.

Clinical trials are medical research studies that are used to answer specific questions about a new type of medical treatment or to study new ways of using a therapy. Participation in a lung cancer clinical trial lets the patient receive expert medical care by leading physicians in the field of cancer research and gain access to new drugs or treatments not available to other patients. Participants will be closely monitored and evaluated for any side effects. In many cases, medical treatment, including administration of medication and follow-up testing and other care, is provided at no cost to participants.

The subject of clinical trials is an important topic for discussion between lung cancer patients and their doctors. Patients should be aware of all available treatment options and can work with their health care team to make an informed treatment decision.

To learn about all of the available treatment options, patients can ask their physicians the following questions about lung cancer clinical trials:

10 Questions To Ask Your

Doctor About Lung Cancer Clinical Trials

1. Are you aware of any clinical trials for lung cancer taking place in my area that I might be eligible for? If so, what are they?

2. How can I determine whether I am eligible for a specific trial?

3. What are the possible short- and long-term benefits/risks of participation?

4. Are clinical trials a good option for my stage/type of lung cancer?

5. Will I have to travel a far distance to the trial center and, if so, are there resources available to assist with transportation?

6. Will I still have access to my standard health care team while I am enrolled in this trial?

7. What other treatment options are there for my stage/type of lung cancer?

8. Will this treatment hurt or cause any severe side effects?

9. Will my insurance cover some/all of the potential costs for participation in the trial?

10. Can I terminate my participation in this trial if I feel that it is not right for me after I have begun receiving treatment?

For further assistance in locating an appropriate lung cancer clinical trial, you can also contact the Lung Cancer Alliance clinical trials matching service, toll-free at (800) 698-0931 or on the Internet at

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