Clinical Trials

A nurse is placing a blood pressure cuff on a patient in a clinic.

Clinical trials at the University at Buffalo are critical as part of our commitment to the community because they improve access to advanced medical treatments, often years before they become widely available. Participation in trials can frequently lead to better health outcomes. 

Why Participate in a Clinical Trial?

A doctor is asking a patient questions and putting answers on a digital tablet.

The diversity of the general population is an important factor when determining the effectiveness of a new therapy. Although many trials are conducted on so-called experimental treatments, many involve the use of therapies already proven effective for one condition and show promise for a different set of symptoms.

These studies ultimately improve the quality of health care and the access of patients to effective treatments. They also allow patients suffering from a disease to access cutting-edge, life-changing therapies.  

Why Clinical Trials Matter for the Buffalo Community

  • Advance Medical Knowledge and Treatments: Clinical trials enable researchers to study the mechanisms of human diseases and test new therapeutic interventions that could be more effective for various health conditions. As Buffalo continues to grow as a health care hub, local patients can benefit directly from these cutting-edge treatments.
  • Personalized Health Care: Clinical trials offer patients access to the latest therapies, often before they become widely available. This can be particularly important for individuals with conditions that are difficult to treat or for which traditional treatments have not been effective.
  • Community Health Improvement: By participating in clinical trials, Buffalo residents contribute to a broader understanding of how diseases affect specific populations, helping to tailor health care strategies to better meet the unique needs of the local community.
  • Economic Benefits: Successful clinical trials can lead to the development of new therapies and technologies that attract investment, create jobs, and contribute to the overall economic growth of Buffalo. The involvement of local institutions and hospitals in these trials further enhances Buffalo’s reputation as a leader in medical research.
  • Long-Term Impact on Public Health: Clinical trials not only help in evaluating the effectiveness of new treatments but also contribute to a greater understanding of behavioral and epidemiologic factors that influence health outcomes. The knowledge gained can lead to improved public health strategies and services, benefiting Buffalo residents in the long run.

Opportunities to Engage with UB Health Sciences

Victor E. Bull, UB's mascot, is getting a checkup in a doctor's office.