Hearing the words “renal cell (kidney) cancer” for the first time can bring a flood of emotions and uncertainty. As the most common type of kidney cancer, renal cell (kidney) cancer has several proven treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Research in this field is moving quickly and clinical trials can open the door to options beyond standard care.

A clinical trial is a research study designed to test new approaches for preventing, diagnosing, or treating disease. Studies can range from advancing immunotherapies to refining targeted drugs to finding ways to reduce treatment side effects. By joining a clinical trial, you may access therapies that aren’t widely available, while still receiving the high-quality care you would expect from standard treatment.

What is a clinical trial?

Clinical trials are research studies that develop drugs, approaches, or techniques to help treat, prevent, or detect disease. The current renal cell (kidney) cancer drugs are now a standard treatment because patients once volunteered for studies that tested their effectiveness. Current trials continue to enhance care, investigating how new drugs, dosages, combinations, or administrations can improve survival and quality of life.

Finding clinical trials

It’s a common misconception that clinical trials are reserved for patients who’ve exhausted all other options. There are many different clinical trials and each has its own set of requirements. While previous treatments may be a requirement for some, don’t be afraid to ask your care team if you’re eligible for clinical trials after a new diagnosis.

If you’re curious about clinical trials, your cancer care team is the best place to start. Some cancer centers have trial opportunities on-site, or you can also search ClinicalTrials.gov, a government database that lists studies. While the website can feel overwhelming at first, your doctor or a nurse navigator can help you filter by diagnosis, stage, and treatment history. 

Support for patients in trials

Logistics can be one of the biggest concerns. Clinical trials may involve more frequent appointments, additional scans, or blood work. Some patients also need to travel to academic centers. Depending on the specific trial, some of the additional costs may be covered. To help, many cancer centers offer support services, including transportation assistance, housing, and help with parking costs. Social workers can also connect you to organizations that provide grants or reimbursements for trial-related expenses. You can also explore different resources that can help you manage the financial aspects of your care.

Questions to ask your doctor

If you’re newly diagnosed, it’s worth asking about clinical trials before starting treatment, since some are only open to patients who have not yet received therapy. Consider asking:

• Are there trials available for my stage and type of renal cell (kidney) cancer?
• How does the trial treatment compare to standard care?
• What additional time or travel might be required?
• What kind of financial or logistical support is available?

Exploring clinical trials does not mean you have to enroll in one, but learning about them early can help you feel more confident in your decisions and ensure you’ve considered every possible option. For some people, a trial offers hope of a promising new treatment, and for others, it provides reassurance that they’ve explored every pathway available.

If you would like to connect with an Outcomes4Me oncology nurse practitioner at no charge through the Outcomes4Me app, using the “Ask Outcomes4Me” button.