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Clinical Trials

Clinical Trials for Children with Birth Injuries

Today, researchers have produced and continue to develop new medications, therapies and treatments to address the needs and improve the lives of children with birth injuries such as cerebral palsy. For many disabled children and their families however, medical and technological advances can't come fast enough. When current treatments fail to produce the help a child needs, families often turn to clinical trials for hope.

Why Should I Enroll My In A Clinical Trial?

A clinical trial is a scientifically controlled test designed to assist researchers in determining the safety and effectiveness of new treatments for use in humans. A clinical trial cannot guarantee a desirable outcome, but it can empower children with birth injuries and their families by allowing them to:

• Participate proactively in their health care.
• Access new medications, devices and procedures before they become widely available.
• Receive specialized care from medical experts at leading health care facilities.
• Help countless others by contributing to medical research.

It's important to understand that clinical trials are also associated with a number of risks. For example, a clinical trial may:

• Expose participants to unpleasant or dangerous side effects.
• Fail to provide an effective solution for the participant.
• Require a significant commitment of time and energy.
• Result in fees to participants that may not covered by health insurance.

Only you can make the decision to enroll your child in a clinical study, but you don't have to make that decision alone. You can and should consult with your health care team and educate yourself with information to help you make the best decision for your child.

How to Enroll In A Clinical Trial 

The first step is to find a study in your child's area of need. Each clinical trial is governed by a unique set of rules, known as protocols, and eligibility guidelines. Prospective participants must meet certain criteria, which may be based on such factors as age, gender, medical condition(s), and previous treatment history. Ask your doctor, therapist, or another member of your health care team to help you identify clinical trials for which your child may be eligible.

If you find a clinical trial that seems right for your child, the next step is to learn as much as possible about the study. A doctor or nurse will talk to you about the objective of the trial, the tests and procedures involved, the risks and benefits, and associated costs. Before your child is admitted to the study, you will be asked to sign an informed consent form acknowledging that you have received and understand this information.

Signing the consent form does not obligate you to participate in the trial - participation in a clinical trial is always voluntary. This means you can decide not to enroll your child in the study, or you can withdraw your child from the trial at any time.

View a list of clinical trials for children with birth injuries.

View a list of clinical trials for children diagnosed with PPHN.