Brussels, Belgium-based Myeloma Patients Europe (MPE) has launched an online tool designed to help people find and join studies.
The system – called the Myeloma and AL Amyloidosis European Clinical Trial Navigator – provides information about EU trials focused on myeloma, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) and AL amyloidosis.
The platform allows patients to search based on characteristics such as the study phase, recruitment status, type of medicine or results availability. It also provides the option of locating the selected clinical trials, letting users know in which country and which center the clinical trials are taking place.
Solène Clavreul, head of medical education and scientific engagement at MPE, said “Many patients are not aware of clinical trial options. The Navigator will be useful to help myeloma and AL amyloidosis patients find clinical trials in their own country and in Europe.
“It will also help patient advocates to analyze the clinical trial landscape in Europe and advocate for better access to clinical trials in their country,” she said.
MPE medical advisory committee member Claudio Cerchione – from the haematology Unit, Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori “Dino Amadori” in Italy – explained that the aim is to boost participation in drug research.
“The Navigator is a great opportunity for both patients and caregivers and myeloma physicians and researchers. It can help to look for the best therapeutic opportunity in the current setting of disease and to help centres to refer patients,” Cerchione said.
At present, the platform is only available in English however the plan is to add more European languages in due course according to MPE president, Lise-lott Eriksson.
“Unlike other clinical trial search tools, the Navigator stands out for its patient-friendly interface, easy to navigate for patients and caregivers. One other advantage from a patient perspective is that it can be used in different languages.
“It serves as a vital tool for patient organizations and advocates, driving forward patient-centric healthcare and cross-border collaboration in drug development and clinical research.”
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