What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study designed to evaluate how well a new medical approach works in people. As a patient at Illinois CancerCare, you may have the opportunity to participate in a clinical trial that offers access to innovative, cutting‑edge treatment options.
Participation in a clinical trial is always voluntary. Whether you choose to take part in the trial or not will never affect the quality of care you receive.
Why participate?
By participating in a clinical trial, you may gain access to new and advanced therapies while simultaneously contributing to research that benefits future cancer patients. Clinical research plays a vital role in advancing cancer care and treatment, improving outcomes for current and future patients, and shaping the treatments of tomorrow.
Clinical Research Beyond Treatment
Cancer research extends far beyond testing new treatments. Today’s clinical oncology research addresses every stage of the cancer journey, from prevention and screening to diagnosis, symptom management, cancer care delivery, and survivorship. These studies help improve not only how cancer is treated, but also how patients experience care.
What is molecular testing?
Understanding Molecular Testing
As part of modern cancer care and clinical research, molecular testing helps doctors better understand the unique characteristics of a person’s cancer. This information is especially important when identifying treatment options and determining eligibility for certain clinical trials.
Molecular testing examines your DNA to identify specific changes, called mutations, that may influence how cancer cells grow and behave.
How Gene Changes Can Influence Cancer Growth
Our genes control how cells grow, divide, and function by directing the production of proteins. When mutations occur, cells may begin making abnormal proteins (or stop making the important ones), which causes them to grow and divide uncontrollably.
Over time, and often after several genetic changes, this uncontrolled growth can lead to cancer.
Most cancer-related mutations develop during a person’s lifetime rather than being inherited. Some are linked to external factors such as tobacco use or sun exposure, while others occur randomly within a cell without a clear cause.
Personalized Care and Clinical Trial Matching
Every cancer is unique. Molecular testing gives your provider and research team valuable insight into the biology of your cancer, supporting a more tailored approach to your care.
Depending on your diagnosis and test results, molecular testing may:
Your oncologist and research team will discuss whether molecular testing is appropriate for you and how the results may inform both treatment decisions and potential clinical trial opportunities.
Joining a Trial: What to Expect
Choosing whether to participate in a clinical trial is a personal decision. At Illinois CancerCare, our goal is to ensure you feel informed, supported, and comfortable every step of the way.