Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments, combinations, or approaches for pancreatic cancer. They play a critical role in advancing care and can provide patients with access to therapies not yet available outside the research setting.
Why Clinical Trials Matter
- Expanded options: Trials may include targeted therapies, immunotherapies, or novel drug combinations.
- Improved outcomes: Research shows that patients treated at centers offering clinical trials often live longer, even if they do not participate in a trial themselves.
- Advancing science: Participation helps researchers understand pancreatic cancer better, improving treatment for future patients.
Types of Clinical Trials in Pancreatic Cancer
- Phase I: Tests safety, dosage, and side effects of a new treatment.
- Phase II: Evaluates how well a treatment works for a specific cancer type.
- Phase III: Compares the new treatment against the current standard of care.
- Precision medicine trials: Match treatment to genetic or molecular features of the tumor (e.g., BRCA mutations, MSI-H status).
How to Find a Clinical Trial
Patients and caregivers can search for trials using the U.S. National Library of Medicine’s official database:
This tool allows you to filter by:
- Location (state or hospital system)
- Stage of cancer
- Type of intervention (drug, surgery, device)
- Enrollment status
Karmanos Cancer Institute (KCI) is a National Cancer Institute (NCI) Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and has been since 1978. We are one of only 57 centers located in the United States. KCI is the only cancer hospital in the state of Michigan and our NCI designation ensures that we demonstrate scientific excellence as well as expertise in clinical, laboratory, behavioral and population-based research. We offer our patients cancer treatment and clinical trials not available at other hospitals, as well as welcome patients coming in for consultation for a second opinion.
KCI physicians and cancer researchers tirelessly engage with cancer research and the scientific advances made which assist us in determining treatment options and guide treatment courses. We are at the forefront of offering treatments that define the new standards of care. Our research programs, unique to KCI, are bringing safe, effective, and groundbreaking treatments from the laboratory bench to the patient’s bedside. From groundbreaking research to the most up-to-date therapies and individualized treatment plans, KCI is truly leading the fight against cancer. We are committed to being at the forefront of cancer treatment and offering tomorrow’s standard of care today!
https://www.karmanos.org/karmanos/clinical-trials-at-karmanos-cancer-institute
When to Consider a Trial
- At initial diagnosis, particularly for borderline resectable or advanced disease.
- Before starting chemotherapy, to explore whether first-line trial options are available.
- After progression on standard treatment, when new approaches may be available.
Support from Sky Foundation
Sky Foundation partners with leading institutions, including Henry Ford Health, to connect patients directly with appropriate trials. We also maintain relationships with national research networks, helping patients identify opportunities quickly and efficiently.
Key Takeaway
Clinical trials may offer access to new treatments that could improve outcomes. Patients are encouraged to ask their oncologist about trial eligibility as early as possible and use trusted tools like ClinicalTrials.gov to explore current opportunities.
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