Research advocates help shape research

Research is the only way to improve cancer detection, prevention, and treatment options. But sometimes, research studies are not designed to answer the questions that are most important to patients. Likewise, funding agencies do not always choose to support the most relevant or urgent research.

Research advocates are patients or caregivers who are trained to provide the patient perspective and share their real-world experiences to help accelerate research and advance science. Most research advocates are not scientists. Advocacy training programs can help patients gain the skills they need to assist scientists in their research.

How advocates can help shape research 

Participating in research advocacy allows people to contribute to medical knowledge. There are several phases of research. Each phase of research includes several opportunities for patients and caregivers to improve the study by sharing their perspective.