New clinical trial search engine introduced

A new clinical trial search engine has been launched to offer consumers better access to clinical trials throughout the world.

The site's development has been supported and underwritten by the Biomedical Research and Education Foundation, as well as the Bruce and Marsha Moskowitz Foundation.

The site is updated 24 hours a day, looking at the needs of patients and physicians looking for up-to-the-minute information on clinical trials. It features access to clinical trials in the United States and worldwide.

It can also be run on mobile devices, while plans have suggested that a social network for people who are looking to take part in clincial trials relating to specific diseases, conditions or wellness studies.

Charles Rudin, associate director of clinical research for the Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University, said: "As the number of clinical trials increases, consumers need an easy way to target trials that are close to their homes or preferred medical institution, while researchers face increasing competition in enrolling enough trial participants to generate meaningful data."

In order to use the website, consumers have to input the name of a disease or condition, their location and the number of miles they are capable of travelling.

After the information is entered, a list of both open and closed clinical trials appears, giving consumers the chance to receive comprehensive information on specific pieces of research.

As well as this, those who register on the site can request a "push notification" when there is a convenient clinical trial related to their services.

Researchers themselves can also benefit from the website, as it gives them a chance to contact people about their availability for potential trials.

Furthermore, results are divided depending on geographical location, meaning that consumers can narrow down options to only include those which are situated close to them.

Posted by Ben Evans