Giving Children a Voice in Clinical Trials

Developments in procedures, knowledge and technology are improving the way health specialists diagnose, research and treat various conditions. The area of clinical trials is one such example of where improvements are making patient experiences more comfortable, and as a result, where they are also able to give children a voice in the research.

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Colonoscopy Advancements

For many, the word colonoscopy will not have positive connotations. The procedure can be invasive and uncomfortable at around 45 minutes long as a small camera is inserted into the rectum to assess the colon. However, colonoscopies are crucial in screening for health problems, with over 16,000 in the UK dying each year from colon cancer.

Recent research is looking at how a small robot, less than 3/4 of an inch in length, could replace the current technology. Magnets from outside of the body will be able to control the robot, which in turn will minimise colonic pressure during the procedure. The trials have thus far been successful with pigs, and human trials are expected to yield equally positive findings.

Understanding the bowel and the myriad of symptoms that can arise from an array of problems, disorders and diseases has long been a complex challenge. Lack of understanding, inadequate testing and diagnosis and resultantly poor treatment can leave many patients in increasing distress.

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Children in Clinical Trials

Clinical trials could improve the way health professionals diagnose and treat patients with bowel conditions, which can affect anyone at any age – children included. Reliable Thorough QT Studies, where consultancy, reporting, analysis and publishing are offered, are provided by the likes of http://www.richmondpharmacology.com/specialist-services/tqt.php.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) provides guidelines and and imposes strict regulations to ensure the health, ethical standards and safety of child participants are upheld and protected. Introducing a trial such the one involving the colonic robot should be more comfortable and potentially very useful for children who struggle with stomach complaints and would otherwise have to undergo a potentially far more uncomfortable colonoscopy.

To give patients, both adults and children, a little more control over their health and management, apps like the Sounds Like IBS app are enabling better awareness and management of symptoms through clinical hypnotherapy. This could potentially ease the financial strain for patients who can’t afford private treatment and for the NHS.

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