General information for potential volunteers
What is a research study? What is a clinical trial?
A research study is a scientific way to improve or develop new methods of health care. Studies are designed to answer specific questions on how to treat, prevent, screen for, and diagnose different diseases and disorders. Many types of research studies exists. For example, clinical trials tests whether new medicines, therapies or devices are safe and effective. Other studies collect biological specimens, like blood, urine or airway samples, to understand health.
What is a placebo?
In clinical trials, drugs are often compared with placebos to check the effectiveness of that drug. A placebo is an inactive substance which may resemble an active substance but has no value to treat or prevent an illness.
What is a bronchoscopy?
This study procedure consists of the passage of a flexible tube through the mouth or nose into the airways. This will allow us to see into the large and small spaces inside the lungs and airways. This procedure will allow us to get samples of airway cells by brushing, tissue sampling, lavage and/or washings
Should I volunteer?
There are many reasons for joining a research study. You may want to:
Learn about ways to possibly improve your health
Participate in a study that is trying to better understand a condition that you have
Gain access to novel treatments that are not otherwise available
Help others by contributing to medical knowledge
Will I be compensated?
Financial compensation is available for many of our research studies. Please reach out to us for additional information.
Who can participate?
Each study has its own rules about who can or cannot participate. This is called eligibility. Your eligibility may be based on your age, overall health, type and stage of a disease, smoking habit, and other condition. Things that allow you to participate are called inclusion criteria, and things that disqualify you are called exclusion criteria.
Are there risks or side effects to being in a research study?
Sometimes research procedures and drugs may cause discomfort and/or side effects. The study team will discuss with you known possible risks so you can decide if you want to volunteer. If you do participate in the study, you will be closely monitored for safety and any potential health-related concern will be discussed with you. In addition, the study team will inform you about any new risks that are learned during the duration of your study participation. Please reach out to us with any concerns or questions that you may have regarding study related risks.
What is informed consent? What is an informed consent form?
Informed consent is a process used by researchers to explain and describe potential risks and benefits of participation in a research study. This also includes an in depth discussion of study requirements and activities that would occur if a participant agreed to join the study. You will be provided with an informed consent form to read and review. Before you participate in a study, a member of the study team will review the form with you and answer any questions you may have. If you decide to join a study, you will be asked to sign the form.
What if I do not want to take part in a research study?
You can withdraw from the study at any time.
Who can I contact if I have additional questions?
You can call us at (646) 962 2672 or email us at cora@med.cornell.edu with any questions and a study coordinator will get back to you.