At Make 2nds Count we would like to see every patient with secondary breast cancer offered the option of a trial at some point in their treatment pathway. 

However, we funded a research survey in the UK of 768 secondary breast cancer patients and found that 23% of respondents reported an oncologist raised clinical trial participation.

Make 2nds Count funds a Patient Trials Advocate (PTA) service ran by senior research nurses that aims to raise awareness of the benefits of clinical research, and the trials happening within the UK. As a patient with secondary breast cancer you can book to speak to the PTA team to learn more about clinical trials. 

It’s important to be aware that clinical trials have eligibility criteria that may exclude you from taking part. For example, some trials in secondary breast cancer will exclude patients with breast cancer that has spread to the brain, others might exclude patients if they have already been on a similar class/type of drug. If you hear about a trial that you are interested in it is important to check these criteria first, and to also ask your consultant for advice.  

Information about clinical trials can be confusing, however your consultant or specialist nurse should be able to guide you through this.

If you’re interested in taking part in a trial, talk it through with your cancer specialist, who is most familiar with your medical history. They’ll be aware of the major breast cancer trials that are in progress and which ones are happening in your area. They can advise you according to your situation.