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Clinical Studies Groups | |||||||||||
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The NCRI Clinical Studies Groups represent a central component of the new framework for cancer research in the UK, providing the primary route through which new ideas for clinical trials are developed. At present 20 NCRI Clinical Studies Groups exist although it is likely that the number may increase as the trials portfolio develops. The groups are funded by the major cancer charities and the MRC and are UK wide in their remit. The 15 Groups covering specific cancer sites are charged with the development of national cancer clinical trials and work to a broad, but common remit. This includes overseeing existing studies, considering new research questions, developing proposals and securing funding from NCRI members, as well as providing expert advice. Decisions are being informed by the work of NCRN, in particular its programme of evidence and economic reviews, and the activities of NTRAC. The portfolio for each group will undergo independent peer review every three years. This is an exciting time for the Groups, each of which is actively identifying gaps in current research and developing new trials to address these. Further details of the groups’ activities are available from: Eileen Loucaides email ncricsg@cancer.org.uk Tel. 0207 061 8582. The Consumer Liaison Group (CLG), was established in June 2000 to advise on the input of consumer views to the Groups.Members of the CLG sit on most of the Groups and are involved in several NCRI Trial Steering Committees and the NCRI Boards. A series of think-tank meetings have been held, resulting in a report which will assist the NCRN/NCRI in developing a strategy for consumer involvement in its cancer clinical research. The CLG is now working with the NCRN and NCRI to consider how consumer input into cancer clinical research can be developed further. Consumer involvement is also an integral feature of NTRAC's activities and the CLG are working closely with NTRAC on new initiatives in early clinical trials. The Radiotherapy Clinical Studies Group is keen to ensure quality assurance in clinical trials, and to investigate the biological characteristics of patients who have extreme responses to radiation therapy in ongoing and new studies. The groups host a rolling programme of National Meetings open to all those involved in clinical research. These are free and attract Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points. The Secretariat, responsible for the overall day to day management and support of the Groups, is led by Eileen Loucaides. Strategic management of the Groups, including peer review, is the role of the NCRN Steering Group where all the major Funding Bodies are represented. Existing Clinical Studies Groups
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