Can I participate in a clinical trial?

Each clinical trial has guidelines about who can participate in a study.  The factors that allow someone to participate in a clinical study are called inclusion criteria, and the factors that disqualify someone from participating are called exclusion criteria. They are based on characteristics such as age, gender, the type and stage of a disease, previous treatment history, and other medical conditions.  The criteria are used to identify appropriate participants for the study, and help keep participants safe. The criteria help researchers ensure they will be able to answer the questions they plan to study.

If you are considering participating in a study, we recommend you review the Learn About Clinical Studies page.