Are there risks and drawbacks of participating in health research or clinical studies?

All health research studies and clinical studies involve some degree of risk. For studies that only ask you to fill out a survey, the risks are minor, such as possibly asking you questions that could make you uncomfortable. For studies that ask you to take an experimental drug, the risks can be much greater, such as having negative side effects. The study coordinator will go over all the risks and benefits of a study with you before you enroll. These will also be explained through the informed consent process. Each person must think about the risks and benefits and decide for themselves if the study is something they want to be involved in. If you have concerns about possible risks, make sure you ask a member of the study team.