NIHR Clinical Research Network ‘Research Changed My Life’ campaign
- 20 July 2015
- News
New campaign highlights positive impact of clinical research
A new consumer poll shows 66% of people feel that getting more chance of a new or better treatment is the only reason to take part in a clinical trial.
But a new campaign is highlighting that clinical research can have a positive impact on people’s lives in many different ways.
“Research changed my life” is using the inspirational experiences of research participants to raise awareness of how clinical research can benefit patients, their families or carers.
Through a collection of film, video-diary and audio stories, “research changed my life” highlights benefits that include: improved health; increased understanding of the health condition; more focused care; a sense of altruism; the opportunity to shape future treatments and a new stimulus for people’s live
One case study interviewed as part of the campaign is Thomas Baragwanath, who has been managing his allergy to peanuts since he was first diagnosed as a young child. Ever since then, a fear of food and the need for ready access to adrenaline has been a constant in his life. He recently decided to participate in the peanut allergy trial at Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge.
The Anaphylaxis Campaign advises that despite the benefits of many research projects, there is no cure for allergy and that effects of trials showing improvements are not permanent. Anyone considering entering in to research studies should be thoroughly informed and discuss with experts, healthcare professionals, friends and family before committing.
National Institute for Health Research, Clinical Research Network Chief Executive Dr Jonathan Sheffield said: “”Research changed my life” highlights the invaluable role that clinical research plays in society, all over England.
"The campaign shows that taking part in clinical research is not just about direct health impacts – it has a broader role to play in connecting patients with their condition, which brings a range of benefits to their lives and the lives of their family members or carers."
Local NHS services are preparing to support the launch of the campaign on 28th November, while patients and health professionals are being encouraged to share their experiences of how research changes lives.
To find out more about “research changed my life”, visit researchchangedmylife.com or text RCML to 07717 99 00 00 (standard network rate applies).
Read more about Tom's story and experience of particapting in research here.
