Publication date:  May 2011     Updated: January 2012

Review date: Under review

Well-designed clinical trials make a vital contribution to advancing medical knowledge, and so improve treatment, care and quality of life for all, including children. Because children are different from adults developmentally and physiologically, clinical trials in children are essential to ensure they receive appropriate, safe and effective treatments and care.  

When parents are asked to enrol their children in a clinical trial it is important they understand what is involved and can make informed choices – together with their children, if they are old enough. In this healthtalkonline module 29 parents and 3 health professionals share their experiences of children being invited to take part in clinical trials.

Select from the key topics below or choose from the 'Full list of topics' on the left hand side to explore all the topics covered.

See also Clinical trials in children and young people and Clinical Trials