Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are an essential part of research focused on developing safer, more effective cancer treatments and setting new standards of cancer care. At the Cancer Center of Southern California, we know that progress doesn’t happen without research and innovation.
Our oncologists have led numerous clinical trials to advance cancer care, helping develop effective treatments for various types of cancer. We are proud to be one of the nation’s leading centers for enrolling patients in oncology trials, offering access to therapies not yet widely available and providing hope when standard treatments are no longer enough.
What are Clinical Trials?
Clinical trials are carefully structured research studies that test new drugs, treatment combinations, or technologies in patients. These studies help establish safety, optimal dosing, and determine if a new treatment works better than existing ones.
Every trial is conducted in phases, with each stage building on the results of the one before it.
Focus on safety, dosage, and how the body responds to a new treatment, usually with a small group of patients.
Expand to a larger group to evaluate how well the treatment works for a specific type of cancer.
Compare the new therapy to the current standard of care in a larger population to determine if it should become widely available.
Trials are overseen by regulatory bodies and institutional review boards to protect safety and ethics. By joining a clinical trial, you can gain early access to promising therapies while contributing to breakthroughs that shape the future of cancer care.
Benefits of Joining a Clinical Trial
Participating in a clinical trial at the Cancer Center of Southern California offers some benefits.
- Early access to promising therapies not yet widely available
- Expert care and close monitoring from our experienced oncology team
- Chance to contribute to advancing cancer research and future treatments
- Possible financial support, including travel and lodging assistance, from sponsors
Eligibility to Participate in Clinical Trials
Not every clinical trial is right for every patient, and not every patient is eligible for a clinical trial. Eligibility depends on factors such as your type and stage of cancer, past treatments, and overall health. Clinical trials mainly include:
- Patients who haven’t responded to standard treatments
- Volunteers who want to help advance future care
If you qualify for a clinical trial, our oncologists will explain your options to you in detail. Participation is always your choice, and you may choose to withdraw from a trial at any time.
Personalized Options Besides Clinical Trials
If you don’t meet trial criteria, we offer other pathways to explore advanced options. This can include compassionate use, off-label drugs, and single-subject INDs. Our team also helps you explore financial assistance programs if insurance does not cover these treatments, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to care.
Things to Consider Before Participating
While clinical trials provide access to promising new therapies, it’s important to understand all aspects before making a decision. Our team will guide you through:
- Possible side effects or risks of investigational treatments
- Insurance coverage, and what costs may be supported by a sponsor
- Time commitments, such as frequent visits, tests, or follow-ups
- Informed consent process, so you feel confident before enrolling
Real-World Data & How We Help with Clinical Trials
Here’s some real-world data about clinical trials.
- Per last known estimates, only about 7% of U.S. adult cancer patients actually participate in therapeutic clinical trials.
- A study of nearly 4,000 cancer trials found roughly 49% achieved their enrollment goals, which means many trials struggle to recruit enough patients.
- Barriers to patient enrollment include travel, eligibility restrictions, insurance concerns, and awareness.
How We Help
At the Cancer Center of Southern California, Dr. Sant P. Chawla is an internationally recognized leader in oncology research. Over the years, he has been directly involved in clinical trials that have led to breakthrough cancer therapies now used worldwide.
First-hand experience has shown us that few patients are aware of the potential of clinical trials as a treatment option. We help our patients find the right clinical for their cancer.
We fight for you. Our oncologists have led numerous clinical trials to advance cancer care and are proud to be one of the nation’s leading centers for enrolling patients in oncology trials.
We offer more options. We offer access to more clinical trials than most major institutions in California
We help with insurance. We can treat patients with HMO or Kaiser insurance on a clinical trial, which many are unaware of.
We guide you. Our dedicated care team guides you through every stage, from explaining your options and answering questions to assisting with travel logistics and providing ongoing support.
Current & Upcoming Clinical Trials
You can check a comprehensive list of clinical trials that are actively enrolling patients on our website. View trial details by sponsor, drug name, phase, and description.
Since new trials open regularly, we encourage you to reach out if you don’t see one on the list that matches your needs. Our team can share information about upcoming opportunities that may be right for you.
Access Advanced Clinical Trials for Cancer
At the Cancer Center of Southern California, we consider clinical trials as a cornerstone of medical progress and innovation. Our team helps shape the future of cancer treatment while ensuring you feel safe, supported, and fully informed at every step.
To discuss your options and for appointments, please call us at 310-552-9999 or request an appointment online.
