Cancer Research & Clinical Trials

Oncology clinical trials are research studies that explore answers to scientific questions that offer better opportunities to prevent, diagnose or treat cancer. In 2011, patients were enrolled in trials studying important question in lung, breast, ovarian, pancreas, primary brain tumors and cancers of the head and neck.
St. Vincent's is always researching new clinical trails for cancer patients. Our ultimate goal is to be able to offer patients access to a clinical trial from initial treatment from their cancers and subsequent lines of treatment.
Different types of clinical trials
We currently offer several types of trials including:
- Prevention trials test new approaches, such as medicines, vitamins, minerals or other supplements that doctors believe may lower the risk of a certain type of cancer. These trials look for the best way to prevent cancer in people who have never had cancer or a new cancer from presenting in people who have already had cancer.
- Treatment trials test new treatments (like a new cancer drug, new approaches to surgery or radiation therapy, new combinations of treatments, or new methods such as gene therapy).
- Screening trials test the best way to find cancer, especially in its early stages.
- Quality of Life trials (also called Supportive Care trials) explore ways to improve comfort and quality of life for cancer patients.
For a complete listing of cancer clinical trials currently available at St. Vincent's, please download the PDF file, or call the Clinical Trials office at 203-576-6329.
The Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care

The Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care is accredited with commendation by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons.
Criteria for accreditation include a relationship with the American Cancer Society (ACS) and a representative from the ACS is a member of our Hospital Committee on Cancer.
Click in for additional information about specific cancers listed by ACS, and call the Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care's referral line: 1-877-231-SWIM (7946) for more informaton.
Contact us
To find a St. Vincent’s physician who can discuss your health concerns or those of a loved one, please click on our FIND A DOCTOR tool and search by specialty, practice, location or keyword. We’re here to help you locate the medical expert you need.
To speak with a St. Vincent's Care Line representative, call (877) 255-7847
To speak with somone at the front desk of the Medical Center, please call (203) 576-6000
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