Drug trials - Health is paramount

INFORMED consent is a fine concept but when it comes to drug trials the decision to participate may be informed a little too much by financial hardship.

Student representatives recently voiced concerns that hard-pressed students are turning themselves into human guinea pigs for clinical trials in an attempt to make ends meet.

If that’s the case, the news that three young men were taken seriously ill during cancer drug trials in Cork this week should serve as a reminder that there are risks associated with the modest rewards.

Drug trials are necessary and participation is by choice although it might not seem much of a choice if the alternative is not being able to pay the rent.

No one can be sure of the outcomes of drug trials but participants must at least ensure they have considered the possible consequences for their health as well as their finances before they take part.