What does ECOG mean in ONCOLOGY

The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) is an independent, nonprofit clinical and research organization dedicated to cancer research, education and patient care. ECOG's mission is to improve patient outcomes by optimizing the design, conduct, monitoring and reporting of cancer treatment trials.

The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) conducts a wide variety of clinical trials that investigate new cancer treatments in humans. These trials also study how certain therapies might improve quality of life among patients struggling with cancer.

Studies conducted by the ECOG involve rigorous protocols to ensure that all results are scientifically valid. Every trial design undergoes a thorough review process before it is approved for investigation. All data and results are carefully monitored during each trial to maintain accuracy while protecting patient safety.

Patients who participate in studies conducted by the ECOG may not be charged any fees or required to cover expenses beyond those covered by their insurance or the institution conducting the study. Patients may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred as part of participating in a trial such as travel costs, childcare costs or time off work due to study visits.

Trial lengths vary depending on their designs but usually last several months or longer. Patients can expect regular contact with healthcare personnel as part of participating in an ECOG trial and follow up visits after completion of treatment for further evaluation and safety monitoring.

Eligibility requirements vary based on each individual trial but generally include being over 18 years old, having been diagnosed with cancer within a specified time frame, having some form of health insurance and meeting other specific criteria outlined for individual trials. Patients should discuss their eligibility directly with their healthcare provider or medical team before agreeing to participate in any ESOC-sponsored trial.

Clinical trials sponsored by ECOG take place at multiple sites across North America including hospitals, private practices and standalone research facilities. Patient participation is mostly through referrals from physician members who have joined one or more of ECOG’s committees governing these clinical studies.

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The funds used for research come from many sources including foundations, government agencies, drug companies, individuals and other organizations interested in improving outcomes for people living with cancer.