Clinical trials are research studies being performed to develop new therapies and identify the best treatment. Such trials often help change and shape the landscape of medical care. Although clinical trials are performed under strong supervision, many people are still hesitant to participate because they don’t fully understand the process or may have a few misconceptions. Here are four of the top myths associated with clinical trials and cosmetic surgery research.
Myth: Clinical trial volunteers are treated like human guinea pigs.
Fact: Many people believe that once they become part of a research study, they will only be looked at as a test subject rather than a human being. Or they think that they might be given drugs or products without fully understanding what they are consenting to. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Before starting a trial, you will go through a thorough consent process that helps you understand your rights as a participant, as well as what to expect during and after the trial.
Myth: Clinical trials are dangerous because they use new medicine and methods.
Fact: All cosmetic surgeries today, whether it’s a tummy tuck, facelift, or simple BOTOX® injections, started as a research study. The top priority for everyone involved in a clinical trial is the safety of the participant. Before trials are even started, they are scientifically tested to be deemed safe for use on humans. Throughout the trial, researchers will constantly monitor and assess a participant’s condition and ensure their safety.
Myth: Clinical trials are a way to get free plastic surgery.
Fact: People who participate in clinical trials end up playing a more active role in their care and can gain access to new treatments before they are made widely available. Sometimes this involves having your procedure’s costs taken care of, but this is only after a volunteer has been approved as a candidate. Each study has their own guidelines that prevent certain volunteers from participating. Clinical trials are in no way a method to try and get free plastic surgery.
Myth: If I am found ineligible for a cosmetic surgery trial, I won’t be able to participate in any other studies.
Fact: Each trial sets up their own guidelines to determine who is eligible; therefore, just because you were disqualified from participating in one doesn’t mean you won’t qualify for another.
Interested in cosmetic surgery research in Chicago? Call DeNova Research for more information. Contact our office in Chicago today to book an appointment and learn more.
