Clinical studies give us a better understanding of how genes can cause or influence diseases. NHGRI researchers are working with patients, and with families with a history of inherited diseases, to learn more about the genetic components of common and rare disorders, and to develop new and more effective tests and treatments.
Deciding whether to participate in a clinical study is an important and personal process. Some reasons people choose to participate include:
- Participants in clinical studies help current and future generations. Through these studies, researchers develop new diagnostic tests, more effective treatments, and better ways of managing diseases with genetic components.
- Participants in studies are actively involved in understanding their disorder and current research.
- Participants in some studies gain access to new tests and treatments before they are widely available.