Columnists

Give A Gift – Volunteer For A Clinical Trial

Issue 31.16

It is said that the greatest gift is one that is given “anonymously”.  Millions of people who volunteer to participate in clinical trials, or “studies” each year give this unique gift.

The individuals are rightly considered, by some, heroes in the medical community.  Their gift of participation helps advance our health.

Volunteers help researchers explore promising new medical treatments targeting the cause of illness, relieving symptoms of disease and improving conditions.  Every medicine we take, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs as well as medical devices, would not be available without the unselfish people and the clinical trials in which they participated.

A decision to participate in a trial varies from each individual.  In every case, there are risks involved.  For instance, someone with a serious illness like cancer, participation may provide access to a new potentially life-saving treatment vs. someone with a chronic illness it may offer hope for future patients fighting against the disease such as Parkinson’s Disease.  Some people choose to participate as healthy volunteers to help the research community identify new and safe medications to begin testing among patients.

Anyone can volunteer to participate in a clinical trial.  There are more than 50,000 clinical research trials being conducted every year, many different types therefore making the experience of participating varied.

The decision to participate in a clinical trial may bring hope to the person participating.  As with all trials, something new is always learned and may benefit public health and advance medical knowledge.  This helps researchers and doctors learn about what works and what doesn’t work in treating illnesses and conditions.

When participating in a clinical trial there is no charge to the volunteer or their insurance company.  Medication and study specific procedures and/or testing, education about disease being studied performed at no cost and generally compensation is given for time and travel

We are fortunate to have Chrysalis Clinical Research, a dedicated research facility, and providers in our community conducting many clinical trials.  We are currently enrolling trials for the following diagnosis:

*type 2 diabetes

*high blood pressure and high cholesterol

*Meniere’s disease

*swimmer’s ear “infection of the ear”

*shingles

*constipation while using pain medication OIC

*irritable bowel syndrome with constipation IBS-C

*sudden hearing loss

If you or some one you know would like to participate in a clinical trial or learn more about the clinical trials contact:  Chrysalis Clinical Research at (435) 656-1704 or stop by our office located at 736 S. 900 E. #201; St. George, UT  84790 or visit us at sgccr.com

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