Clinical research is fundamental to medical advancements and has led to the development of numerous treatments that save lives and improve the quality of life for people around the world. 

It helps find techniques for diagnosing diseases earlier, enhance preventative strategies, design safer and more effective treatments, and improve patient care for better outcomes. 

By participating in clinical research, individuals can contribute to these advancements. The participation of diverse groups of people is essential in order to generalize the findings and ensure that new treatments are effective across different populations and conditions. Learn more about the importance of participating in clinical research for chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Benefits of Clinical Trials for CKD

Since the first written clinical description of a chronic kidney disease was documented in 1827, clinical research into CKD has been responsible for:

• Diagnostic breakthroughs, such as the formula for estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR),  
• Identification of risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension, and
• The design of life-extending treatments such as:
  • Artificial kidneys,
  • Multiple forms of dialysis, and 
  • Kidney transplantation. 

The U.S. spends hundreds of millions of dollars each year on kidney-related research, but that’s still a tiny fraction of what it spends on CKD-related care.

What Is Clinical Research?

Clinical research encompasses two primary types of studies: observational studies and clinical trials. Observational studies involve monitoring people in their everyday settings, to collect and compare data over time, without intervening or altering participants’ regular routines. 

In contrast, clinical trials are more direct interventions that test the safety and efficacy of new:

• Treatments such as drugs, surgeries, or therapeutic devices, and 
• Diagnostic tools and techniques.

Clinical trials are vital for determining whether a new treatment is an improvement over existing solutions regarding:

• How well different doses address specific disease symptoms over time, 
• What kinds of side effects does the treatment cause, and
• Whether or not the benefits of the treatment outweigh the risks.

The Processes Involved in Clinical Research

The methodology of clinical research is rigorous and structured to ensure safety and reliability. Participants in clinical trials undergo a detailed informed consent process, ensuring they understand the implications and procedures involved. 

Screening processes then assess whether they qualify for the study based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Throughout the trial, participants are closely monitored through regular visits and assessments to ensure their well-being and to gather valuable data.

Clinical research plays a pivotal role in the advancement of medical science, offering hope and new possibilities for better health outcomes worldwide. Through the diligent and ethical conduct of studies, researchers continue to make significant strides in understanding and treating complex health issues.

*National Institute on Aging. (2023, March 22). What Are Clinical Trials and Studies? Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/clinical-trials-and-studies/what-are-clinical-trials-and-studies#:~

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