Clinical trials consist of treatment provided to patients as part of a scientific study. In addition to pursuing a therapeutic objective, clinical trials also help to throw light on specific scientific questions and are carried out according to a defined plan (the study protocol). Much of the medical knowledge available today originates from studies of this kind. This form of applied, clinical research is different to basic research, i.e. research carried out in the laboratory or on models, because it relates directly to people, to the patient. It is this direct involvement of people that makes the results of clinical research so useful.
The objective of gaining a better understanding of how patients can be managed and treated, of improving this care and consequently of helping the affected individuals is always our foremost concern.