Many of us may be affected by cancer at one time or another. When faced with treatment options, it is important that those who are affected by cancer understand all of the treatment options. One option is to follow standard treatment protocols, and another option is to enroll in a research study or clinical trial. In clinical trials, patients receive experimental treatment and doctors carefully measure how the treatment affects the patient. Results from clinical research trials have contributed, and will continue to contribute, to the advances made in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer.
At Benedictine Hospital we are dedicated to improve the quality of life and the survival of people with cancer. We strive to raise awareness of cancer clinical trials that are available outside of our hospital as well as those trials that we offer through our Cancer Center’s Clinical Research Department. Our Cancer Center, together with area physicians, participate in research trials that are funded by The National Cancer Institute, cancer cooperative groups such as National Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP), American College Of Surgeons Oncology Group (ACOSOG), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG), and Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG). We also participate in trials that are sponsored by pharmaceutical companies.
The following clinical trials are currently offered through Benedictine Hospital’s Cancer Center. Please contact the Clinical Research Department at 845-334-3015 for more information on these trials.
ACOSOG Protocol Z4032
A Randomized Phase III Study of Sublobar Resection versus Sublobar Resection plus Brachytherapy in High Risk Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), 3cm or Smaller
This trial will determine the efficacy of radioactive seed implants in treating lung cancer. Seed implants deliver radiation directly to the tumor.
ECOG Protocol Pacct-1
Program for the Assessment of Clinical Cancer Tests) TAILORx (Trial Assigning Individualized Options for Treatment
This trial will determine the efficacy of chemotherapy and hormonal therapy for patients who are at risk for having their cancer return.
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Protocol #CZOL446E2352
A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blinded, Stratified, Placebo-Controlled, Multi-Center, 3-Arm Trial of the Continued Efficacy and Safety of Zometa (every 4 weeks vs. every 12 weeks vs. placebo) in Patients With Documented Bone Metastases From Breast Cancer
This trial compares the efficacy and safety of Zometa when given every 12 weeks instead of every 4 weeks. Zometa is an FDA approved drug that treats a type of osteoporosis that occurs when a patient’s breast cancer has spread to the bone.
ASSURE:
Adjuvant Sorafenib or Sunitinib for Unfavorable Renal Carcinoma Sunitinib and Sorafenib are drugs that have been approved by the FDA for use in advanced kidney cancer, but not in the case where kidney cancer has been completely removed. The purpose of this study is to determine if these drugs can prevent kidney cancer from returning.
There are many other clinical trials available nationwide for different types of cancer. The National Cancer Institute provides information about those trials and you may contact the National Cancer Institute by visiting their website at:
www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials
or by phone at 1-800-422-6237 (toll free) or TTY: 1-800-332-8615
If you are interested in enrolling in any clinical trial, please remember to discuss the details with your physician.