How do I find a clinical trial?

Talking to your specialist

You usually need to be referred by your doctor if you want to join a trial. So the best place to start is to ask your cancer specialist. They have all your test results, records and reports, so they will know whether a particular trial is right for you.

There may be a local trial that would suit you. Your specialist will know about any large national trials for your type of cancer and will be able to discuss them with you. Ask them if you are interested in a specific trial you have read about.

You need to be well enough to take part in a trial. The trial doctor checks this (your performance status) along with the entry conditions to see you are suitable to join.

Using our clinical trials database

We have a searchable database of cancer trials. All the information is written in plain English so it’s easy to understand.

We aim to include information on all trials and studies that recruit people in the UK on our database. We include trials funded by a wide range of organisations. You can search for a specific trial, or search for trials by:

• trial status - this includes trials open to recruitment as well as trials that have results

• cancer type

• trial type - this includes types of treatment or an area of research such as screening

• phase of trial

• location

We suggest you save or print the information if you find a trial you are interested in. Then take it to your cancer specialist to discuss. They will be able to answer any questions you have and see if they think you might be suitable for the trial. They can refer you if you are.

There is a process for joining a trial that can be time consuming, but it is important. An experienced research nurse or doctor will explain the trial in detail. This includes:

• what tests you will need

• visits to hospital

• how you have treatment (if a treatment trial)

• the possible benefits, risks and side effects

Our database isn't intended to replace the process of joining a trial.

The database also helps people affected by cancer to find out what is happening in the world of cancer research. You may be interested in finding out generally about current research.

Finding out more about a trial

Each summary on our database lists the contact details for the Cancer Research UK information nurses. They can talk through the trial with you and tell you where it is taking place. So if you would prefer to discuss a trial with someone before you approach your own doctor, you can ring or email the nurses.

Only your own doctor, who has all your medical details, can check for sure whether a trial is suitable for you. They can refer you to the doctor running the trial. Most studies have very strict entry conditions called eligibility criteria. This is to make sure the people taking part are as similar as possible. Find out about eligibility criteria.

People sometimes ask us if the information nurses can help them join a trial. Unfortunately, this is not something we can do via our website or the information nurses. You need to speak to your own doctor.

Other organisations and charities

Other charities offer information and support about trials for a specific type of cancer.

There are different research organisations that carry out research in the UK. Some of the information on these websites are aimed at health professionals. But there is usually also some information for patients.

Go to more information about clinical trial organisations.