Clinical trials are conducted in steps, known as phases, to learn more about new or experimental treatments or interventions in a safe and gradual way. When testing these treatments or interventions in people, there are possible unknown risks.

Each phase answers a different question and must meet several levels of regulatory, safety, and ethical requirements in order to proceed to the next phase. Information from each phase used to design the next phase if the results are positive.

For additional information on the phases of clinical trials, please visit the Canadian Cancer Society.