Clinical research trials are used to test therapies in people with cancer, with the goal of finding improved treatments. Trials answer important scientific questions and suggest future research directions. In addition, patients who participate may be helped by the expert care and new or standard treatments they receive through trials. The Regional Cancer Center at Providence St. Peter Hospital and its affiliated physicians participate in national trials to study a variety of cancers.

Are you a STAR candidate?
Providence St. Peter Hospital Regional Cancer Center is participating in the STAR trial, a study of tamoxifen and raloxifene for breast cancer prevention. The study randomly assigns women to receive one of these two drugs and a placebo. Post-menopausal women ages 35 and older are eligible for this study if their risk of developing breast cancer is higher than normal based on family history, age and reproductive history. To find out more, call Tamara Francis at (360) 493-7281 or send an e-mail.

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