Things You'll Need:
- Computer with Internet access
- Oncologist
-
Step 1
Look to join clinical trials that cater to you. Most trials to test their treatment on specific groups, so know your risk factors. Smoking, drinking, eating red meat and not exercising can contribute to colon cancer, but many studies look deeper than that. Certain clinical trials are specific to African Americans and Jews of Eastern European descent. Both groups have higher rates of colorectal cancer than the general population.
-
Step 2
Curb your bad habits. To participate in clinical trials, you must follow the rules precisely. If you return to your old habits of frequent drinking or smoking, you will most likely not be selected for research study.
-
Step 3
Sort through the many clinical trials and research studies available on the National Institute for Cancer's Web site (see Resources below). While not every clinical trial is listed, you should find at least one to join that will complement your treatment.
-
Step 4
Remember that clinical trials are testing products not yet proven effective. New immunotherapy and chemotherapy treatments are constantly being tested, but you will have to weigh the risk before you join the trial. For instance, while the newer treatments may promise less side effects, you will be testing the product to see exactly what side effects do occur.
