Should I enrol my child on a clinical trial for neuroblastoma? 

Enrolling your child on a clinical trial is a personal decision, and one that should always be made in close discussion with your child’s medical team. Clinical trials can offer access to new or improved treatments, but they are not suitable for every child. Your consultant will help you understand whether a trial is suitable, safe and appropriate based on your child’s type of neuroblastoma, previous treatments, and overall health.

What a clinical trial could offer 

Depending on the trial, participating may give your child access to: 

• New treatments not yet routinely available 

• Updated versions of existing therapies 

• Different combinations or approaches to care 

• Closer monitoring during the study period 

However, clinical trials also come with uncertainties. A new treatment may or may not work better than standard care, and there may be unknown side effects or risks. 

How to decide whether a clinical trial is right for your child 

Your consultant will talk you through: 

• Why the trial is being offered 

• Whether your child is eligible 

• What the treatment involves 

• How it compares to the standard treatment pathway 

• Any known risks, benefits, or uncertainties 

• What follow‑up, tests, or hospital visits would be required 

You can ask as many questions as you need - your medical team is there to support you in making an informed choice. 

Read more about support to make treatment decisions.