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You’ve read about the clinical trials that were carried out across the world for the COVID-19 vaccine, but did you know that there are clinical trials for cancer treatments which are available in Singapore and delivered by public and private healthcare providers? Read on to learn more about clinical trials for cancer, the different stages of a trial and how to participate in a clinical trial in Singapore.

What are cancer clinical trials?

Cancer clinical trials are:

• studies which assess new drugs or combine approved drugs that are in-use with new treatment methods
• studies to find new ways to detect, diagnose or find out the extent of the illness

Clinical trials are used for:

• Diagnosis of cancer
• Treatment of cancer
• Prevention of cancer
• Management of cancer symptoms and side effects from treatment

Through the delivery of cancer clinical trials, doctors support patients to access new evolutions in cancer treatments and the potential for improved quality of life.

What are the different stages of clinical trials?

New cancer treatments are usually tested in four different phases.

Phase I trial

• Assess a new drug or treatment for its safety, side effects and to identify the correct drug dosage
• Usually involves a small group of people (20 – 80)
• Duration of a trial can be up to a few weeks

Phase II trial

• Investigates a new drug or treatment on more people following a Phase I study
• Usually involves 50 – 200 people to assess the effectiveness and get a deeper understanding on the optimal dosage level and any side effects
• This phase can last from a few months to a few years

Phase III trial

• Assesses new drugs or treatment on more people to confirm its effectiveness compared with similar treatments
• Usually involves 100 – 2,500 people
• The data collected is integral for Government’s approval for future funding
• Duration of a Phase III trial can last from a few months to a few years

Phase IV trial

• Monitors side effects over a longer period of time to better define them
• Assesses the long-term benefits and risks of treatments for a new drug or treatment
• This is usually done after the drug has been approved and made available for public use

How do I participate in a clinical trial?

Before you decide to participate in a trial, it is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks associated with participating in clinical trials with your doctor, while ensuring your loved ones are informed about your decision.

If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial for your diagnosis, please speak with your doctor about potential clinical trials that you may be eligible for. You can also search for current trials available at Icon Cancer Centre here.