How do scientists decide when to move from one clinical trial phase to the next?
Clear “yes” or “no” answers are rare in science. It is particularly difficult to decide what is worth pursuing and what is not when the data are unclear. Researchers make decisions based on scientific evidence, which is why research moves in such slow and careful steps. Even if some participants in a clinical trial have a positive response to the new treatment, researchers must look at the experience of all participants when deciding whether to continue trials. For example, more people treated with the standard therapy may have better results than those treated with the experimental treatment. D. How can public awareness about clinical trials influence the research process? With increased public awareness about clinical trials, more people may be willing to participate. With a greater pool of participants, researchers can complete the trial more quickly and speed the development of new treatments. E. How do clinical trials differ from unsound or alternative treatments? Clinical trials
