A clinical trial is a study of a new or different way to treat cancer. Often medications or other treatments that are not yet proven to be effective with a particular cancer are tested. Such treatments might include hormonal therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or new surgical techniques.

People participating in clinical trials receive all other recommended treatments for their cancer and are closely monitored.

Participants in trials must meet the specific guidelines that each clinical trial has in order to be a part of the trial. Sometimes the clinical trials are conducted at major medical centers; other times the trial participant receives treatment by the primary care doctor at home.

For more information, call the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).