Participating in clinical research can make a life-saving difference in your life and the lives of others. Patients who volunteer for clinical studies may benefit in additional ways:
- You could help scientists learn more about your disease or condition, like how to treat or prevent it.
- You could learn more about your health through extra tests or scans.
- You could gain access to additional resources or support groups.
- You could receive a potential new treatment before it is widely available.
Before you decide to join a study, the research team will answer your questions and share key facts about the study, including its risks and benefits.
What are the potential risks of participating in a clinical study?
There are some possible risks to consider:
- Participating in a study could be inconvenient. You might have longer appointments, more tests or complicated instructions to follow.
- A treatment could be uncomfortable or cause side effects.
- An experimental treatment might not work or be better than the standard treatment.
- You might be assigned to the comparison group and not receive the experimental treatment.
Before participating in a clinical study, a study team member will review all information about the study including specific risks and potential benefits. This process is called informed consent. This information helps you make an informed decision.
Is research confidential?
The same ethical and legal codes that apply to medical practice also apply to research. Clinical research is regulated to protect volunteers and their personal information. Your personal and medical information remain confidential — only seen by those authorized to do so.
Can I leave a clinical study?
Yes. You are free to ask questions, request more information or withdraw from the study at any time. To withdraw from a study, contact the research team to inform them and provide reasons for leaving the study. You may be asked to return for a safety evaluation before withdrawing from the study.
Sources:
- National Institutes of Health. NIH Clinical Research Trials and You. Access October 30, 2025. https://www.nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you
- National Institutes of Health. National Institute on Aging. What Are Clinical Trials and Studies? Accessed October 30, 2025. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/clinical-trials-and-studies/what-are-clinical-trials-and-studies