The team of doctors and researchers who conducted the research for each new treatment, as well as the patients and clinical trial specialists, are the ones responsible for making it possible. Because each therapy must undergo rigorous testing through clinical trials prior to being approved, the journey from conception to market entry can be a long one.
This Cancer Prevention Month, we highlight an interview with Julia, a project manager who is experienced in clinical research and has worked there for over 20 years. She works for a large contracting research organization that manages global clinical trials. She is at the forefront of developing new cancer treatments. We spoke with her to find out what inspires her, about her plans, and much more. Continue reading below.
Why did you decide to become a clinical trial worker?
After leaving university, I got involved in clinical research when a friend was told she had malignant melanoma. She was 26 and the mother of two young children. She was diagnosed in December and died within three months. Watching her and her family deal with the situation was difficult, and I wanted to make a change.
How did you enter this field?
I studied molecular biology and focused my research on oncology. This is how I was able to get my first job as an on-site monitor. My goal was to learn as much about clinical research as possible, including the phases and the evidence required for each stage of a clinical trial. As I worked at different companies, I learned new aspects of the evolution of drug development. Clinical research was an exciting field to work in, especially with the introduction of targeted cancer treatments.
What is the most challenging aspect of working in medical research today?
Trials that are competing. Many trials are conducted to find the best treatments or combinations that benefit patients. You need to collect enough data to determine if your drug works or not. Getting patients and clinicians to pay attention to your clinical trial is crucial to its success.
Using the internet to do outreach for clinical trials has become easier. The internet has made it easier for patients to access information, such as patient support groups, study information, and other resources.
What advice would you give to a patient who is considering a clinical study?
Consult your doctor before acting on any online information. Your doctor may be able to provide you with advice or important information about clinical trials. It’s also important to know if the prosecution uses placebos and, if so, whether you can switch to an active drug if your response is not satisfactory.
What is the most exciting thing you have seen?
I’ve worked in the pharmaceutical industry for 20 years and have only ever worked on a drug that did exactly what was intended. It is a targeted leukemia treatment. You can see how much work goes into developing drugs. Only a few are successful. This is why clinical research is so important.
It’s been a great pleasure to have met patients and their loved ones. I feel a sense of satisfaction and joy knowing that, in some way, you contributed to bringing a smile to their faces. It’s incredibly rewarding to see patients enjoying a higher quality of life.
What do you look forward to seeing next in the industry?
The drug development industry is in a very exciting phase. I am excited to see what the scientists will come up with in the next decade. These scientists are unsung heroes who are researching how diseases are brought about. The first step is to pinpoint potential targets. I hope that we can find a cure for disease and illness.
