Most clinical trials fall into this group. They’re designed to test new treatments or novel uses for existing treatments on cancer patients. Often, these trials involve genetic testing of tumors. Goals include finding safe doses for new treatments, identifying side effects, determining treatment delivery options and assessing whether quality of life is improved.

These studies use devices such as machines, instruments, and materials. Often these trials are checking the safety and performance of a device. Devices are used to assist in or diagnose, prevent or treat diseases.

These studies focus on healthy people and reducing cancer risk. Participants are sometimes former cancer patients at risk for developing new cancers. They generally fall into two types: action studies, which look at whether certain activities reduce risk; and agent studies, which examine the impact of medicines, vitamins and other dietary items.

The earlier a cancer can be identified, the easier it is to treat it. These trials focus on diagnosing cancer before symptoms arise, determining which tests are best and whether screenings lead to unnecessary procedures.

These trials focus on helping people live with cancer and the side effects of treatments used to fight it. Researchers look at a range of options, including depression medications, counseling and exercise. Some trials also explore the impact of cancer on family members and caregivers.

These studies examine patients – and people at high risk of getting cancer – over long periods of time. Researchers look at a range of factors, including family medical history and genetics. They hope to better understand how specific cancers form and evolve.