This will vary depending on the clinical trial being conducted. If your physician thinks you are eligible for a trial, he/she will explain the study to you. Each study’s protocol has guidelines for who can or cannot participate in the study. They may include age, whether you are male or female, past medical problems, current health status, stage and type of cancer, among others.
If you are interested in participating in the study, you will be asked to sign a consent form. Study staff will then assess if you are eligible for the trial. This process usually involves a variety of tests and collection of information. The participant is also given specific instructions and schedules for the trial.
You will be monitored carefully throughout the trial. This may involve such things as blood tests, x-rays, monitoring of vital signs such as blood pressure and pulse and filling out questionnaires.
You will also be monitored during active treatment and for a length of time after the trial is completed.