Clinical trials for cancer are research studies that answer questions about new therapies and treatments, with the goal of finding safe and effective approaches to care. The Providence Regional Cancer System, and its affiliated physicians, participates in national trials to study a variety of cancers.

For example, Providence St. Peter Hospital Regional Cancer Center is part of the STAR trial, a study of tamoxifen and raloxifene for breast cancer prevention. For more information, call 360-493-7281.

The oncology physicians at Providence Western Washington Oncology participate in community-based research studies through Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG) and the National Cancer Institute. The clinic also participates in research studies funded by pharmaceutical companies. For more information, call Lisa Humphrey, R.N., at 360-754-3934.

If you would like to learn more about research trials in general, including risks and advantages, visit the National Cancer Institute at www.nci.nih.gov.