Cancer treatment advances coming out of clinical trials offer hope to prolong life, improve treatments, and possibly even offer a cure.

The Clinical Trials Program provides access to clinical trials offering state-of-the-art, innovative, medical treatments in our own community. The Institutional Review Board (IRB) is responsible for reviewing proposed clinical trails and approving or rejecting them. Patient safety and protection are top priorities in every discussion at the IRB.

Since 2004, Carson Tahoe Cancer Center has been a member of the Community clinical Oncology Program (CCOP). What does this mean? Cancer patients in Northern Nevada have the opportunity to participate in national-level clinical trials without having to travel out of the area.

Patients often choose not to take part in available clinical trials for many reasons, including misconceptions about the methods involved. Many times, patients wonder if they will receive the most advanced treatment as a clinical trial participant or if they'll be treated as a test subject. Fortunately, fears of receiving anything less than the best are unfounded.

Many of the other fears about clinical trials are unnecessary as well. Common worries include the fear of receiving a placebo or having a treatment not covered by insurance. Rest assured, patients always receive the most appropriate treatment available, and many time prior arrangements can be made with the hospital or drug companies to help cover treatment costs.

Every cancer patient considering clinical trials will meet with an oncology nurse to discuss the treatment process and answer any questions. And, because it is voluntary, you may leave the trial at any time.

For more information on clinical trials, contact the Carson Tahoe Cancer Center at 775.445.7500.