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Research
What to Ask before Enrolling in a Research Study
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Clinical trials are the last step in a very long journey to getting new treatments approved . Yet 85 percent of all trials face delays and 30 percent never get off the ground due to a lack of volunteers . Participating in clinical research can help scientists learn about Parkinson ’ s disease and accelerate the development of new therapies .
While clinical studies may benefit participants and the greater Parkinson ’ s community , they also pose potential risks . It ’ s important to carefully consider both the benefits and risks and to discuss research participation with your doctors , the study team and your loved ones before deciding to enroll in a trial .
Here are sample questions potential volunteers should ask a trial team when evaluating a study , whether or not you ’ ve taken part in a trial previously .
QUESTIONS FOR THE STUDY TEAM
What is the purpose of this study ? How might my participation help the Parkinson ’ s community ?
What types of information will you be collecting ?
How long will the study last ?
What are the potential benefits of this study ?
What are the potential risks ?
Will I need to stop taking my medication or change my dosage ?
What types of side effects might I experience during this trial ?
Will my health information be kept confidential and safe ?
Learn more ways to get involved in a clinical trial at michaeljfox . org / clinicaltrials .
HELP ADVANCE RESEARCH , ONE “ MATCH ” AT A TIME
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Looking for the right clinical trial to get involved with research ? Fox Trial Finder is our online matching tool that lets you search for Parkinson ’ s studies recruiting worldwide . Anyone , including those without PD , can participate to help accelerate research . Enroll now at foxtrialfinder . org .