Taking part in a clinical trial

Who can take part in a clinical trial?

Each trial has strict rules for who can take part. You may hear these called inclusion and exclusion criteria or eligibility criteria. They can include:

• your age
• what type of cancer you have
• whether the cancer has spread – some trials are for people with locally advanced (stage 3) or advanced (stage 4) cancer
• what previous treatments you have had
• your medical history, including any previous cancer
• other medical conditions
• your blood test results
• your general health – for example, how well you are feeling or how active you are.

Your doctor or research nurse will be able to explain whether a trial is suitable for you.

To check if you are eligible for a trial and meet the criteria, you may need to have screening tests. These may include blood tests, scans or other tests. The screening tests help to make sure it is safe for you to take part, and that the treatment will have the best chance of working for you.

How can I take part in a clinical trial?

Your doctor or nurse may tell you about a trial for pancreatic cancer that might be suitable for you. You can ask them about possible trials if you are interested in finding out. Or you might find out about a trial yourself, for example through our Clinical trial finder.

Talk it through with your consultant or nurse to find out if a trial is suitable for you and to help you decide whether to take part. You can ask questions and take your time making the decision.

Published January 2025

Review date January 2028