Research STS
For patients with soft-tissue sarcomas, participation in studies may be an important means of accessing alternative or even new treatment options. However, studies are also important in a "one for all" sense: Only when individuals participate in these studies can questions be answered for future sarcoma patients.
A few facts to consider:
- Patients who participate in clinical studies have the advantage of getting access to new therapy options.
- Every study has advantages and risks as well as criteria for eligibility and non-eligibility. Thorough examination and explanations are crucial before being able to participate.
- Most clinical studies are set up to test a new kind of medication against a standard therapy in order to gain insight into the possible benefits of the new therapy.
- Patients can drop out of a clinical study at any time, for any reason.
When considering entering a study, the following information must be made available to you:
- Basic information about "clinical studies" in general
- The eligibility and non-eligibility criteria of each study
- Possible alternatives/options to the planned study
- Current information about your disease (reports, medical imaging)
- Possible consequences (health, psychological, organizational, financial, etc.), which may affect you (especially important when participating in studies abroad!)
- Comprehensive answers to all your questions from the study director or the person conducting it
Important: Not all doctors who treat sarcomas are aware of every single study currently conducted. Usually, these studies only take place in a few selected sarcoma centers. Therefore, please consult your national patient group or sarcoma center to find out which studies might be available.