These trials can provide valuable insights into the natural history of diseases, risk factors, and treatment outcomes as data is gathered by observing participants in their natural environments or by analyzing existing medical records. Observational trials do not involve experimental interventions or treatments.
Observational trials are a type of clinical research where researchers observe participants and track health outcomes over time without assigning treatments or interventions (i.e., potential treatments).
Observational studies can help researchers understand how effective a treatment is in real-world settings, or show trends in survival and complications.
Participation: Observational studies can be less time-consuming than other types of studies, and participants can often be involved in more than one at a time. Participation may involve filling out a questionnaire or providing a blood sample.
Data collection: Researchers may collect medical history, exposure, clinical data, biospecimens, or images from participants.
Funding: Most observational studies are funded by non-industry sources, such as the National Institutes of Health, academic organizations, or nonprofits.
Reliability: The results of observational studies are considered reliable when patient selection and design are carefully considered.
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