There are different types of clinical trials.
- Prevention trials look for better ways to prevent a disease in people who have never had the disease or to prevent the disease from returning. Approaches may include medicines, vaccines, or lifestyle changes.
- Screening trials test new ways for detecting diseases or health conditions.
- Diagnostic trials study or compare tests or procedures for diagnosing a particular disease or condition.
- Treatment trials test new treatments, new combinations of drugs, or new approaches to surgery or radiation therapy.
- Behavioral trials evaluate or compare ways to promote behavioral changes designed to improve health.
- Quality of life trials, or supportive care trials, explore and measure ways to improve the comfort and quality of life of people with conditions or illnesses.
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