Did you know that we participate in cancer research studies and clinical trials that provide “cutting edge” cancer treatment options, symptom management, and prevention strategies for our patients? Our research department, under the direction of Jeffrey Kirshner, MD, originated in 1983. Examples of recent accomplishments of our clinical trials include establishing the current standard of care for:
- Breast Cancer
- Colon Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
- Chemoprevention strategies for women identified as “high-risk” for Breast Cancer
- Combining Chemotherapy with Radiation Therapy to increase the cure rate of Stage III Lung Cancer
- Using Naproxen to prevent Neulasta pain
- Using Megace to increase appetite and reverse weight loss
The most current information about clinical trials can be found at clinicaltrials.gov. You can also contact our Research Department during regular business hours by calling (315) 472-7504, choose option 1 and enter extension 1350 when prompted, or email us at clinicaltrials@hoacny.com.
Hematology/Oncology Associates of Central New York is dedicated to developing new and more effective ways to slow, halt, cure, and prevent cancer through clinical research. For 27 years, our practice received grant funding from the National Cancer Institute (NCI), which is a division of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). We were among 50 practice sites in the US that received designation by the NCI as a “Community Clinical Oncology Program.”
In May of 2014, the program and funding came to completion. At that time, we became more formally involved with the Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology. The Alliance continues to allow us to offer our patients research opportunities utilizing state-of-the-art cancer treatments. Our patients have access to many of the same clinical trials that are typically available at large cancer treatment centers. We also participate in clinical trials sponsored by private industry and pharmaceutical companies.
Clinical trials allow us to find new and better ways to:
- Treat many different types of cancer
- Manage many symptoms and side effects that may occur with cancer treatments
- Prevent certain types of cancer
Potential Benefits of participation:
- You may receive new, advanced, treatment only available to patients in clinical trials
- More frequent contact with your health care team and additional attention from the staff in our Research Department
- Taking an active role in decisions that affect your life
- The opportunity to help others in the future by improving cancer care
- Getting another opinion without traveling
In the past, clinical trials were sometimes seen only as a “last resort” for people who had no other options or treatment choices. However, many people with early stage cancers choose to participate in treatment and/or symptom management clinical trials! Today’s clinical trials become tomorrow’s standard of care! Ask your doctor and other members of your health care team if there is a clinical trial for you!
If you have any questions about participating in clinical trials, or if you would like more information, please contact the Research Department by calling: 315-472-7504 (x1350)
Frequently Asked Questions About Clinical Trials
