John Stoddard Cancer Center
1221 Pleasant Street
Des Moines, IA 50309
p: 515-241-4141
Clinical Trials
Research plays a large role in cancer care. Through research we have identified improved methods of treating patients. Over the years we have been able to diagnose cancers earlier and provide better outcomes and survival for our patients. With continued investment in research, we look forward to the day that we can say we have a cure for cancer.
Ovarian Cancer Screening Trials
The John Stoddard Cancer Center has teamed up with the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and Massachusetts General Hospital to offer ovarian cancer screening trails, which are designed to detect cancer earlier in women at risk for ovarian cancer. Among women in the United States, ovarian cancer ranks fifth in incidence, according to the National Cancer Institute. These trials are extremely important because ovarian cancer is not always hereditary, nor are there any obvious presenting symptoms. There are no proven methods of preventing ovarian cancer and it is often a rapidly progressive disease. Women who are diagnosed early have a higher survival rate. For more information on ovarian cancer screening trials, contact the oncology research coordinator at the John Stoddard Cancer Center at (515) 241-8704.
Clinical Drug Trial Participation
The Iowa Oncology Research Association has over 100 clinical trials available covering all areas of cancer treatment. Areas of research include; chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, surgery, cancer control (symptom management) and cancer prevention. They also participate in cancer prevention trials including the National Breast Cancer Prevention Trials (BCPT and STAR) and the National Prostate Cancer Prevention Trials (PCPT and Select).
Clinical trials offer high-quality cancer care. Entry into a research study is always a joint decision between the physician and the patient. By looking at the pros and cons of clinical trials and your other treatment choices, you are taking an active role in a decision that affects your life. If you are interested in participating in a research study, please ask your physician to determine if there is a clinical trial appropriate for you.