Clinical research studies are the mechanism that determines if promising new treatments and detection methods are safe and effective. Since every individual’s body works differently, it’s essential to include different races, genders, ages, and ethnic groups in these studies. When it comes to kids participating in research, there’s a lot of hesitation, but it doesn’t change how vital their participation is.
Life Without Child-Specific Treatments
Kids can get many of the same diseases’ adults get, but they are not little adults. Without child-specific treatment approaches for dosage, delivery method, and tolerance, children’s treatment plans for these diseases are based on adult data. To add, there are medical conditions that only affect children, and there are still far too many without effective treatment options. Children’s participation in research studies helps ensure that every child has safe and effective ways to manage their condition in the future.
Clinical Trials are Safe
There is not a treatment that exists that doesn’t carry any risk, even those FDA- approved on the market today. Clinical research studies are regulated by the FDA so that while no trial is risk-free, the benefits outweigh the risk for most. Research studies are necessary to see how potential new therapies respond to the human body. Before these options even get to the study stage, every possible test is run in a laboratory to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
Clinical research studies are governed by the Good Clinical Practice ethical guidelines enforced by the federal government. These laws are put in place so that each participant’s safety is kept a priority. Each volunteer is informed of the study’s purpose, what intervention is being used, potential benefits and side effects, and the visit schedule. This informed consent process ensures every person has the information they need to decide whether or not to participate.
FICR’s Mission to Improve Healthcare
If you’re ready to join our mission to improve healthcare for adults and children, let our team here at FICR help guide the way. We understand your children’s and family’s safety is a priority, as is ours. Currently, we are seeking participants to join an upcoming pediatric diabetes study. Pediatric diabetes can be a challenge to manage as you watch your child struggle with this disease. This study is looking into potential new options for pediatric diabetes. To learn more, call (407) 658-0966.
Reference:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/clinical-trials-benefits-risks-and-safety