Want to leave a lasting legacy? Participate in medical research

THE SLEEP CHRONICLE –  Clinical trials and research are at the heart of medical advances — from cause to cure.

The COVID vaccine provides ample evidence of the value and efficacy of trials, which look at new ways to prevent, detect and treat disease.

Safety is always on the forefront of clinical trials, which are used to determine if a new test or treatment works and is safe. Although many associate clinical trials with new conditions, they also are used to help advance aspects of care, like improving the quality of life of people with chronic conditions.

The motivation for participating in clinical trials varies. All leave a lasting legacy.

Many healthy volunteers take part to help others and to contribute to advances in medical science.

Other individuals, with pre-existing illnesses and chronic conditions, motivations are often the same but their participation comes with the added advantage of receiving new treatments and access to free healthcare.

Although participation does not guarantee an immediate impact, it contributes to the hope of medical advances impacting our children, grandchildren and future generations. 

The American Sleep Association Clinical Trials Resource Center and partner Center Watch posts up-to-date information on sleep-related clinical reseerch and medical therapies, as well as updates on FDA-approved medications and other news. 

Editor’s note: If you are interest in participating in clinical trials and research studies, click here. To see the Center’s full listing of resources, visit the Clinical Trial and Research page..