natural history Clinical Trials and Research
Also known as: disease progression studies, observational disease studies, disease course research, longitudinal disease studies, unintervened disease progression, disease trajectory research
Natural history studies track how a disease progresses over time without new interventions. This research helps scientists understand disease progression, identify biomarkers, and design better clinical trials. Find a Trial helps patients search for active studies, including those focused on understanding disease natural history.
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Common questions about natural history clinical trials
What is a natural history study?
A natural history study observes how a disease develops and progresses in individuals over time without new experimental treatments. These studies help researchers understand the typical course of a condition, from onset to resolution or progression. Data from ClinicalTrials.gov and NIH RePORTER show these studies are crucial for medical understanding.
Why are natural history studies important for clinical trials?
Understanding a disease's natural history provides a baseline for comparison. It helps researchers identify appropriate endpoints, select suitable patient populations, and determine the potential impact of new therapies in later-phase clinical trials. This foundational knowledge is often supported by data from ClinicalTrials.gov and NIH RePORTER.
Who can participate in a natural history study?
Eligibility criteria vary widely depending on the specific disease being studied. Participants typically have a confirmed diagnosis of the condition or are at risk for it. Studies often seek a diverse group to represent the disease's spectrum. Information on specific criteria is available on ClinicalTrials.gov.
What happens during a natural history study?
Participants usually undergo regular assessments, which may include physical exams, blood tests, imaging scans, or questionnaires. The focus is on monitoring disease changes rather than administering new treatments. The frequency and type of assessments depend on the study protocol, often detailed on ClinicalTrials.gov.
Are natural history studies considered clinical trials?
While they are a type of clinical research, natural history studies are typically observational and do not involve testing new interventions or treatments. They are distinct from interventional clinical trials, which evaluate the safety and efficacy of new therapies. Both types of studies are registered on ClinicalTrials.gov.
What kind of data is collected in natural history studies?
Researchers collect data on symptoms, disease markers, genetic factors, lifestyle, and treatment history (if any standard care is received). This comprehensive data helps track disease progression and identify factors influencing its course. Such research is often funded by NIH and documented on NIH RePORTER.
Do natural history studies involve new treatments?
Generally, natural history studies do not involve administering new experimental treatments. Participants typically continue with their standard medical care, if applicable, while researchers observe the disease's progression. The primary goal is observation, not intervention, as seen in studies listed on ClinicalTrials.gov.
Where can I find natural history studies?
Patients and caregivers can search for natural history studies on platforms like ClinicalTrials.gov, a database of publicly and privately funded clinical studies conducted around the world. These studies are often listed under "observational" study types. Information on funded research can also be found on NIH RePORTER.
How to find a natural history trial that fits you
- Describe your natural history situation in detail — stage if applicable, prior treatments, age, and other relevant conditions.
- Use the location filter (worldwide, US, US & Canada, Europe) to narrow to trials near you.
- Review each trial's eligibility criteria carefully. Save 2–5 candidates with their NCT numbers.
- Discuss with your treating clinician before contacting the research site.
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