It’s this time of year that many of us, here in the United States, take time to reflect on things we are thankful for.  Most often we give thanks for our families, our friends, and our health.  

Though we express gratitude for these things we tend to express, and understand, that gratitude on a superficial level. This is especially true when we express gratitude about our health and our quality of life.  This year, I urge you to examine your gratitude for both on a much deeper level.  

Many attribute their health and quality of life to diet and exercise however it goes much deeper. Clinical research is foundational to advancing healthcare and improving lives. Here’s why we should all be thankful for it:

1. Development of Treatments
Every drug, over-the-counter and prescription, and every medical device must be proven to be safe and effective prior to being marketing and sold in the United States.  This means clinical trials must be conducted.  Clinical research is at the foundation of the discovery and testing of new medications, therapies, and medical devices.  Life-saving treatments for diseases like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and infectious diseases exist because of clinical trials.

2. Improved Quality of Life
Through clinical studies, researchers uncover ways to manage chronic illnesses and enhance quality of life for patients, making conditions more manageable and less burdensome.

3. Prevention and Early Detection
Advancements in prevention and early detection of diseases, such as vaccines, screenings, and diagnostic toolsmust also be tested in clinical trials. 

4. Evidence-Based Care
Clinical research ensures that healthcare is guided by evidence rather than assumptions or outdated practices. Clinical trials are conducted to ensure that treatments are safe and effective.  This leads to safer, more effective treatments for patients.

5. Empowerment of Patients/Volunteer
Every clinical trial depends on the courage and selflessnessof the clinical trial volunteers. Patients who participate in clinical trials often gain access to cutting-edge treatments and play an active role in advancing science.  Their willingness to contribute helps shape the future of medicine.  When a clinical trial is able to enroll volunteers from all genders, races, and ethnicities it becomes the first step to identifying an effective treatment for everyone.

Statistics indicate that approximately 66% of adults in the United States have taken prescription medications, 81% have taken OTC medications and close to 90% have used a medical device such as a digital thermometer.  Each of these items was proven to be safe and effective through clinical trials.  Without clinical research, progress in medicine would stagnate. Clinical research provides hope for the future.  Let us be thankful.

Myra Fonville

Myra Fonville is the Executive Editor of Interim Visits magazine.  Myra is a former pharmacist who has worked in the clinical research industry for the past 28 years.  She brings a wealth of knowledge about pharmacy, pharmaceuticals and clinical research.  Myra is very passionate about diversity and health equity which is one of the primary reasons Interim Visits is educating the public about the importance of clinical trials.