Springfield, Il. (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Memorial Health Cancer Center is working to learn more about cancer and cancer patients by participating in nationwide clinical trials.

Ashley Panton, Senior Research Nurse at the Memorial Health Cancer Center, says that successful trials do not necessarily provide a cure. Instead, things like symptom management, lessened side effects, and the overall improvement of quality of life can be positive outcomes of a clinical trial.

According to Panton, researchers monitor patients closely, looking at labs and scans, talking with patients and families, and working in tandem with medical oncologists.

These clinical trials are important because the work that is being done now “can change what standard of care is” in the future, say Panton. She adds that many participants take pride in their contribution to medical advancements and helping other patients in the future.

If you are battling cancer and would like to participate in a clinical trial with the Memorial Health Cancer Center, talk to your primary care physician or medical oncologist. The researchers then can determine if you are eligible for any active clinical trials.