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Puma Biotechnology is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the acquisition, development, and commercialization of novel therapeutics for the treatment of cancer.
Clinical Trials
ALISCA™: ALISertib in CAncer
3 Common Myths About Cancer Clinical Trials—and the Truth Behind Them
Clinical trials help researchers find new ways to treat cancer.1 Being in a clinical trial may give you access to a treatment not yet available to others.2 It also means your health may be checked more closely.2 However, some people have concerns about joining a clinical trial because of negative things they’ve heard.3
Let’s look at three common myths about clinical trials and what’s really true.
Myth #1: Clinical trials are only for people who’ve run out of options.
Truth: Some people think clinical trials are only considered after other treatments, but that’s not always how they’re designed. Each study has its own requirements for who can take part, which may include people at different stages of their condition or treatment.4
What to do: Ask your doctor to explain why they feel the clinical trial option they are recommending might be a good fit for you. You have every right to understand why it might be a good option along with the potential risks and benefits.
Myth #2: If I join a trial, I have to leave my doctor.
Truth: The trial team may handle certain parts of your treatment, like giving a new medication or collecting information.5 In most cases, your doctor stays involved and will continue to oversee your care while you participate in a clinical trial. They may also communicate with the trial team. This will help with coordination of any other care you are receiving outside the clinical trial., 6,7
What to do: Before joining a clinical trial, ask how your care will be managed. You can ask questions such as, “Will my doctor still be involved if I join this trial?” and “How will you keep my doctor informed about my treatment during the clinical trial?”
Myth #3: Once I start a trial, I can’t leave.
Truth: You can leave a clinical trial at any time, for any reason.8 That is your right. You might choose to stop the treatment if side effects are bothersome, or even if you simply change your mind.7
Before joining, you will be asked to go through a process called informed consent. You will be asked to read and sign an Informed Consent Form.7 This form explains the purpose of the trial, what will happen, possible side effects, and your rights, including the right to leave at any time.7
What to do: Take your time with the Informed Consent Form. Ask questions if anything is unclear. You deserve to feel fully informed and comfortable with your choice.
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking about joining a clinical trial, ask questions, take your time, get clear answers, and make the decision that’s right for you with the help of your doctor.
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1
National Cancer Institute, “Dictionary of Cancer Terms,” May 16, 2024, https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/clinical-trial/def/clinical-trial Accessed October 15, 2025.
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2
National Cancer Institute, “Why Participate in a Clinical Trial?,” Updated: November 18, 2024, https://www.cancer.gov/research/participate/clinical-trials/why-participate Accessed October 15, 2025.
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3
Asher N, Raphael A, Wolf I, et al. Oncologic patients’ misconceptions may impede enrollment into clinical trials: a cross-sectional study. BMC Med Res Methodol. 2022;22(1):5. doi:10.1186/s12874-021-01478-5.
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4
National Cancer Institute, “Steps to Find a Clinical Trial,” Updated: July 25, 2025, https://www.cancer.gov/research/participate/clinical-trials-search/steps Accessed October 15, 2025.
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5
Clinical Leader, “Site Visits 101: Visits With Participants, From Prescreening To Completion,” https://www.clinicalleader.com/doc/site-visits-visits-with-participants-from-prescreening-to-completion-0001 Accessed October 16, 2025.
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6
National Cancer Institute, “Clinical Trial Facts”, Updated: January 3, 2025, https://www.cancer.gov/research/participate/clinical-trials/facts Accessed October 15, 2025.
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7
National Library of Medicine Support Center, "Do I still see my regular doctor when I'm in a clinical study?", Article KA-03829, https://support.nlm.nih.gov/kbArticle/?pn=KA-03829 Accessed October 22, 2025.
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8
Shah P, Thornton I, Kopitnik NL, et al. Informed consent. In: StatPearls Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing November 24, 2024. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430827/ Accessed October 16, 2025.
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