How to Locate Stem Cell Clinical Trials
Stem cells are "the building blocks of life that construct blood vessels, the nervous system, organs, and everything else that makes us human," according to the John Hopkins Medical Center (See Reference 1). The U.S. National Institutes of Health and other federal agencies and private industries such as pharmaceutical corporations sponsor a website to assist you in locating clinical trials both within the United States and abroad. (See Reference 2) Participation in stem cell clinical trials requires meeting the criteria outlined in each trial and signing an informed consent form.
Instructions
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Locate Stem Cell Clinical Trials
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1
Visit clinicaltrials.gov, a service provided by the National Institutes of Health in collaboration with other federal agencies, pharmaceutical industries and other private industries. Enter "stem cell" in the search box and receive a list of all actively recruiting stem cell clinical trials.
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2
Sort the list. A link on the website allows you to view actively recruiting stem cell trials, completed trials and non-active trials.
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Select the stem cell clinical trial that interests you. Read the eligibility requirements to ensure that you meet criteria.
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If you have reviewed the clinical trial purpose and still have additional questions, contact the responsible party to obtain more information. The contact and location information is listed at the bottom of every stem cell clinical trial page.
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Understand the location of the stem cell trial. The database is multinational and trials can be anywhere in the world.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Locating and participating in a clinical trial allows you to contribute to advancing medical research.
Speak with your physician before deciding to participate in a stem cell clinical trial.
Keep copies of all signed consent forms and paperwork concerning your participation in the clinical trial.
Some stem cell clinical trials require a long-term commitment. You can always opt out if you decide you can no longer participate, but you must let the researchers know immediately.
Make sure that you will be reimbursed for any expenses incurred if you participate in a long-distance stem cell clinical trial.
Understand the risks involved with clinical stem cell trials. Some treatments may be experimental and serious side effects can occur. Speak with doctors and researchers regarding all risks. Other regimens may require hospital stays.
