Types of Clinical Trials
Some studies are designed for or include healthy people who want to help find ways to prevent a disease, such as one that may be common in their family. You may also volunteer to participate in an observational study in which researchers collect data about a group of people through medical exams or questionnaires over time to learn more about the associations of different lifestyles with aging, memory, and other topics. Or you may be interested in participating in a clinical trial of a new diet, medical device, or drug for a condition or illness you have. Other clinical trials test ways to prevent a health problem or find a disease before there are symptoms. You may also be interested in a clinical trial that studies the role of caregivers or support groups.
If you learn about clinical research opportunities in your area through mailings or flyers, bring them to your appointment with your doctor. Support groups and websites that focus on a particular condition may have lists of clinical studies. Also, you may see newspaper or TV ads for trials in your area.
In addition to talking with your doctor, you can search ClinicalTrials. gov( https:// clinicaltrials. gov) or sign up for a registry or matching service to connect you with trials in your area. For more information about participating in Alzheimer’ s disease and related dementias research, see NIA’ s Clinical Trials Finder at www. alzheimers. gov / clinical-trials.
Summary
Talking With Your Doctor About Clinical Trials
• Talk with your doctor about participating in a clinical trial.
• Ask about the benefits and risks of participating in a trial.
• If you know of a trial you would like to be part of, bring trial information to your doctor to discuss.
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