The inaugural Advanced Clinical Trials Workshop China (ACT China), was held in partnership with the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO) and the Society of Translational Oncology (STO). The workshop included presentations and discussions that provided insights into the essential elements of clinical trial excellence.

Clinical trials play a vital role in improving the outcomes of cancer patients as well as in the drug development process. They account for a significant proportion of total research and development expenditure. Pharmaceutical companies today face an ever growing demand from regulators and patients to expand their clinical trial programs. While there are clear benefits for the conduct of clinical trials in China, it is also acknowledged that there are several key issues concerning clinical trials in China which need to be addressed. It is important that steps be taken to align Chinese clinical trial standards with those used internationally as this will enable more Chinese cancer centers and their investigators to participate in more international studies. This is where ACT China plays a crucial role.

In its mission statement, CSCO states that it is committed to developing continuing education and training programs for oncology professionals in China. Similarly, STO maintains a strong commitment to clinical trial excellence and both CSCO and STO are united in a common goal – the global fight against cancer.