Clinical Trials / Research Studies
Information for Parents

Information for Parents of Participants

Whether to let your child participate in research is an important decision. We appreciate your interest and encourage you to ask questions. Almost daily, researchers discover information about medical conditions and possible ways to help children. Cincinnati Children’s is involved in research because it is very important to understanding diseases and developing ways to prevent and treat health problems in children and adults.

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Research (sometimes referred to as a “research study,” “medical research,” “clinical research study” or “clinical trial”) is a carefully planned test. The purpose of research is to learn about:

  • Health
  • Diseases
  • Medicines
  • New treatments
Children are not little adults. Without research, doctors cannot know how best to diagnose and treat babies and children. About two out of three medicines used for sick children have not been tested in children for correct dosage, safety and side effects. Also, research involving healthy kids adds important information to improve children’s health by learning more about their bodies and how they work.

Participating in research, including “healthy child research,” may lead to knowledge that could benefit your child as well as others. Depending upon the research, participants may also learn information about their condition. Research may help determine:

  • Correct dose
  • Medication safety
  • How well the medicine works
  • Side effects

Research participation is not right for every child or family. It is a personal choice. You should not feel bad if you or your child choose not to participate in research.

Anyone interested who meets the requirements may participate. Requirements may include specific:

  • Age
  • Weight
  • Gender
  • Medical history
  • Current medical condition
  • Diseases
  • Medication
There are uncertainties in any research study. Research can involve surveys, medications, vaccines or other treatments. You and your child may or may not notice any effects from being in the study. If you or your child has side effects or a reaction while in the research study, appropriate care will be given.

Before you and your child decide whether to participate in research, you must be fully “informed.” It is important for you to understand:

  • Your participation is voluntary
  • Why the research is being done
  • What the researchers want to accomplish
  • What will be done and for how long
  • What risks are involved
  • What possible benefits can be expected
  • What other treatments are available
  • You have the right to leave the study at any time without interfering with your regular care
Sometimes there is pay or compensation for your time and effort.
Watch: The Cady Family enrolled in a research study at Cincinnati Children's because they want to be part of finding a cure for cystic fibrosis.
Watch: Research Study Helps Family of Patient with Tuberous Sclerosis Give Back

Enroll in Our Research Study Database

To enroll in our database to be notified about future studies, please complete an online sign up form.

A staff member from the Office for Clinical and Translational Research may contact you after receiving your submission to clarify your information and to talk about any specific research study interests you have for yourself.