Clinical trials are extremely important scientific studies, needed and required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to assess new medical treatments, including treatments for prostate cancer. Participating in a clinical trial can offer benefits to people with the disease.

Here are 5 things you should know about clinical trials.

But engaging in a prostate cancer clinical trial can have it pros and cons. Here are some of the things you should know about clinical trials:

You can get access to new treatments: By participating in a clinical trial, you gain access to a treatment that is not otherwise available. The treatment may be better than those already approved for the condition. Treatments can include new medications, medication combinations, stem cell treatments, or surgeries.