Phase II/III NHS Clinical Trials in Colorectal Cancer

Dr. Saifee Mullamitha is actively involved in Phase II/III NHS clinical trials, helping patients access the latest treatments for colorectal cancer before they become more widely available. These studies play an important role in advancing cancer care and may offer additional treatment options for suitable patients.

Phase III clinical trials are large research studies that compare new treatments with the current standard of care. They help determine whether new therapies are more effective, safer, or better tolerated than existing treatments.

For patients, participation in a Phase III trial may provide access to innovative therapies such as new targeted treatments e.g., immunotherapy approaches, novel drug combinations, or other personalised treatment strategies

Modern colorectal cancer treatments are underpinned by genomic (molecular) testing to guide therapy. This helps us choose treatments that are most likely to work for each individual cancer. They will also determine what clinical trial patient may or may not be eligible for. This personalised approach ensures treatment decisions are tailored to the biology of your cancer.

Dr. Mullamitha routinely reviews whether a suitable clinical trial may be available for each patient as part of their treatment planning. Where appropriate, he will discuss potential research opportunities alongside standard treatment options, helping patients make fully informed decisions about their care.

Participation in a clinical trial is always voluntary, and the wider specialist team will explain the potential benefits, risks, and practical considerations before the final decision is jointly made.

Crucially, participation in clinical trials is always subject to availability, meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria, and completing a screening period, and it often involves a delay before commencing treatment. Dr. Mullamitha will also be able to discuss whether participation in a clinical trial is a preferable to a standard treatment option.