Cancer Research and Clinical Studies

Baylor Health Care System is forging the way in cancer research, offering treatments that until recently were considered mere dreams. Doctors on the medical staff at Baylor share their research findings with other leading cancer experts around the world. Together, they hope to discover the ultimate combination of treatments in their common quest for a cure for cancer.

At the Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, you have access to more than 80 clinical studies. Right now, some of the most exciting advancements are in the field of immunology. For this reason, Baylor created the Baylor Institute of Immunology Research (BIIR). Scientists focus on the study of immune responses in various illnesses, including cancer and organ transplantation. The goal is to improve cancer treatment through immunotherapy.

Also notable is the Mary Crowley Research Center, a facility dedicated to gene therapy research. Each year, the center participates in about 30 Phase I clinical studies through which physicians have successfully identified many corrective genes that can stop the growth of cancerous cells. The goal is to transport corrective genes to the defective or damaged cells, to change the abnormal cancer growth patterns and to stimulate an immune response. To date, more than 500 patients have been treated with gene therapy and other novel agents.

Baylor participates in many ongoing cancer-related clinical studies, ranging from Phase I studies of new treatments to Phase III and IV studies of those that may be nearing Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. If you participate in a clinical trial, you will receive continuous support and medical supervision from specialized physicians, research nurses, and a data manager who tracks your case.

Information about specific clinical studies is available online or please call 1-800-4BAYLOR (1-800-422-9567).