A research study tests how different treatments, or diets or actions affect people’s health or behavior. The goal is to see if the treatment works and if it is safe. 

A clinical trial is a type of research study that test new treatments to see if they are safe and work well. These treatments can be medicines, behavior modifications, or medical devices like pacemakers. Researchers use clinical trials to find better ways to treat diseases.

Before testing on people, scientists study treatments in labs and animals to make sure treatments are safe. Some research studies help find diseases early, even before symptoms appear. Others look for ways to prevent health problems or improve life for people with long-term illnesses. Some focus on how caregivers and support groups can help.

People join clinical trials for many reasons. Some need new treatments because current ones do not work, while others join because no treatment exists for their condition. Some join to help people with common or serious conditions find better treatments for people just like them. Healthy volunteers may also participate to help find ways to prevent diseases.

Watch the informational video below to learn more (5 minutes).

Joining a clinical trial lets people take an active role in their health and help researchers discover better treatments. Every study participant plays an important part in improving care and helping future generations live healthier lives.