There are hundreds of clinical research trials across Johns Hopkins Medicine, though only 3 to 4 percent of patients are currently enrolled in one. If you were a patient at Johns Hopkins, or any other medical institution, would you choose to enroll in a clinical research trial? Cast your vote in today's poll and share your thoughts below about why you would or would not choose to enroll in one.

{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Comments
I would if it would be apt to improve my health.
I have been (and still are) involved in a clincial trial. Due to losing my left kidney to cancer in 2008, the doctors thought I was a good candidate for this clincial reserach. They have followed me for 7 years this comng August. I have 3 years left on this trial. I am glad I had the opportunity to participate in this clinical trial.
Years ago I participated in many Restless Leg Syndrom trials. I had trouble with my legs getting "funny feelings" in them that only walking would alleviate. Not sitting. Not lying down. Not even standing still. RLS may seem like an inconsequential malady to have, but to the people who have RLS, such as myself, without the medication we would have gone crazy. Without these trials, I don't know what I would have done.
I have been a patient and aloowed my self to be enrolled in a couple of studies. Anything I can do to further better treatments for the next person is worth it qand if it gives me a benefit so much the better.
Years ago I enrolled in a clinical trial to test the efficacy of an anti-malaria medicine. At least 10 participants allowed themselves to be bitten by mosquitoes after taking a preventive drug for a couple of weeks. Some of us (including me) had been given a placebo, and actually contracted malaria (we had to have daily blood tests, and were treated immediately upon discovery of the parasite in our blood). Out of at least 10 of us, only 3 got malaria, and all three had received the placebo. Those who received the anti-malaria drug never contracted malaria at all. The trial had great potential for helping those areas where many die each year from a very preventable disease.