New database and funding improve access to clinical trials

Around the world, the 20th May is regarded as the anniversary of the first ever clinical trial1 and is recognised as International Clinical Trials Day. The NZ Breast Cancer Foundation (NZBCF) is acknowledging the importance of clinical trials in breast cancer with a new clinical trials database and funding grants for three trials around New Zealand. The NZBCF clinical trials database (www.nzbcf.org.nz/ClinicalTrials) lists trials in New Zealand and Australia for different types and stages of breast cancer. Chief executive Evangelia Henderson said women need to be proactive in discussing trials with their doctors, and the database can help arm them with information they need. “Many women tell us their doctors haven’t mentioned clinical trials, so it can be worth doing your own research,” she said. “Right now it’s very hard to get into a trial that’s not at your local DHB, but that needs to change, and patients should persevere in asking. For all women with breast cancer, the opportunity to trial new therapies and treatments that may extend or save their life, or improve their quality of life, is something they should have full knowledge of and access to,” says Evangelia Henderson.