Cancer Trials Ireland was established in 1996 under the name of Irish Cooperative Oncology Research Group (ICORG). A group of cancer consultants had the aim to create more opportunities for patients to access cutting edge treatments by putting a formal structure in place, which could make Ireland more attractive as a location to international cancer research groups and the pharmaceutical industry. In 2000, the membership was expanded to include Northern Ireland, UK. Cancer Trials Ireland is a not-for-profit registered charity, partly funded by the Irish Cancer Society and Ireland’s Health Research Board (HRB). They also receive greatly appreciated donations from members of the public. Cancer Trials Ireland works closely with local investigators, international collaborative groups and global pharmaceutical companies.
Working with foremost Medical, Surgical and Radiation Oncologists, as well as Haematologists, Oncology Research Nurses, Translational Scientists, Data Managers, and Pharmacists, since 1996 more than 15,000 patients have taken part in over 350 cancer trials. Cancer Trials Ireland also provides training, facilitates co-operation between all professionals working in the area and supports cancer trials research units throughout Ireland. Cancer Trials Ireland helps to set policy and champion the opening of more cancer trials in Ireland through engagements with key stakeholders both in Ireland and internationally. In 2018, Cancer Trials Ireland members were involved in 13 articles published in peer-reviewed journals, and 28 abstracts accepted for highly regarded international cancer conferences.
To learn more visit www.cancertrials.ie
A version of this story featured in our 2019 newsletter. Read it here.