A diagnosis of genitourinary (GU) cancer, such as prostate, kidney, bladder, testicular or penile cancer, can raise many questions about the treatment options available to you. While your healthcare team will discuss standard treatments, they may also suggest, or you may wish to ask about, whether a clinical trial could be suitable for your situation. 

Clinical trials help researchers evaluate new treatments and approaches to care that may improve outcomes for future patients. Some trials may also provide access to promising new therapies that are not yet routinely available. 

Clinical trials are not right for everyone. However, if you are interested in learning more, speak with your doctor or specialist about whether a clinical trial may be an option for you. 

You can consider asking: 

• Am I eligible for any clinical trials?
  Eligibility depends on factors such as your cancer type, stage, previous treatments and overall health. These criteria are designed to protect participants and help ensure the study produces meaningful and reliable results. 

• What is the aim of the trial?
  Understanding what researchers are studying can help you decide whether participation aligns with your preferences and treatment priorities. 

• How does the trial treatment compare with standard treatment?
  Ask about the potential benefits, risks and uncertainties of taking part. These should be discussed in detail during the informed consent process before you decide whether to enrol. 

• What are the possible side effects? How will they be managed?
  Every treatment has potential side effects and risks. Your doctor can explain what is currently known about the trial treatment and how side effects are monitored and managed. 

• How is the clinical trial designed? Will I know which treatment I am receiving or will it be blinded? Is it randomised? Will the comparison group receive a placebo? 

Clinical trials can be designed in different ways. Many compare a new treatment with the current standard treatment. Some are randomised, meaning participants are allocated by chance to different study groups. Some are blinded, meaning participants and/or researchers do not know which treatment is being received. A placebo may be used in some trials, but it is usually given in addition to standard care rather than instead of treatment.  

Your doctor can explain the design of the study and what it means for you. 

• What extra appointments, tests or procedures are involved? Where will these take place?
  Some trials require additional scans, blood tests or follow-up visits. Ask what will be required and where appointments will take place. 

• Will participating affect my daily life? Will I need to take time off work?
  Ask about travel requirements, time commitments and any out-of-pocket costs that may be involved. 

• Who will oversee my cancer care while I am participating in a trial? 

It can be helpful to understand who will be responsible for different aspects of your care and if this is different to your existing healthcare team. 

• If I join a study, will I miss out on other treatment opportunities? 

Ask how participating in the trial may affect your future treatment options, both during and after the study. 

• Can I leave the trial if I change my mind?
  Participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any stage. 

Asking questions can help you understand whether a trial may be suitable for your circumstances and support informed decision-making.  

If you’re interested in learning more about clinical trials, speak with your specialist or healthcare team. They can help you explore available options and explain what participation would involve.