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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What is Research?

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

Why is research with children needed?

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.

Why participate in research?

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.

Who can 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

What are the risks connected with research?

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.

What is informed consent?

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

Will there be pay for our participation?

Sometimes there is pay or compensation for your time and effort.

What research studies are being conducted?

See a current list of research studies being conducted at Cincinnati Children’s or call 513-636-0098.

What if I want to learn more about research?

Visit our research pages to read more.

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.

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Clinical Trials / Research Studies Information for Parents

Information for Parents of Participants

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Clinical Trials / Research Studies
Information for Parents