Unlocking the Spectrum: Exploring the Diverse Types of Clinical Research

Different types of clinical research are chosen according to the question being studied. Below are brief descriptions of the main kinds.

Treatment Research tests interventions such as medication, psychotherapy, devices, or new approaches to surgery or radiation.

Prevention Research looks for better ways to stop disorders from developing or returning. Studies may examine medicines, vaccines, vitamins, minerals, or lifestyle changes.

Diagnostic Research aims to find more accurate ways to identify a specific disorder or condition.

Screening Research seeks the best methods for early detection of certain disorders or health conditions.

Quality of Life Research explores ways to improve comfort and daily life for people living with chronic illness.

Genetic Studies try to improve prediction of disorders by clarifying how genes and illness may be related. This work may show how certain genes raise or lower risk and could guide more personalized treatments.

Epidemiological Studies look for patterns, causes, and ways to control disorders in populations.

An important note: some studies are “outpatient,” meaning participants go home the same day; others are “inpatient,” requiring at least one overnight stay. Ask the study team what is expected.

Phases of Clinical Trials: Evaluating Medications and Devices
Clinical trials are a form of clinical research that test new interventions such as drugs or psychotherapy. They are usually conducted in four phases, each with a distinct goal and set of questions.

FDA: drug & device review process ClinicalTrials.gov database WHO: clinical research overview

• Phase I trials
  Researchers first test an experimental drug or treatment in a small group to assess safety, find a safe dose range, and identify side effects.
• Phase II trials
  The drug or treatment is given to a larger group to obtain preliminary evidence of effectiveness and to gather more safety data.
• Phase III trials
  The treatment is studied in large groups to confirm effectiveness, monitor side effects, compare it with standard therapies, and collect information needed for safe use.
• Phase IV trials
  After approval, post-marketing studies provide additional data on risks, benefits, and optimal use.

Examples of Other Kinds of Clinical Research
Not all clinical research tests new drugs or devices. Some studies do not involve medications at all, and volunteers may keep their usual treatments. Healthy participants are often needed to provide comparison data. Examples include:

• Long-term studies using psychological tests or brain scans
• Genetic studies that require blood samples but no medication changes
• Family-history studies that gather medical background through interviews with relatives

FDA: Clinical Research Phases