Women and men are different from each other, and the health needs of women will often be different from the health needs of men. Research scientists have learned that across the life span from infancy through all the stages of adulthood, health and health care should be specifically tailored for women and girls. Some of these needs are more obvious. We know, for instance, that women are more at risk for breast cancer than men. But often, important differences are hidden. Heart disease gives us a good example. While we may think of heart disease affecting men, it is actually the leading cause of death in women.

Researchers have also found that the symptoms of heart disease in women are very different than they are in men. So, a woman may have very serious heart disease that can be treated, but neither she nor her doctor may even know that she has it. You can learn about the symptoms of heart disease that women may have by visiting healthywomen.org. This specific information about women’s health is possible because of research studies focused on women. There is so much more we need to know about heart disease and the full range of the health care needs of women. By participating in research studies, women help researchers find better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for the future. To learn more about women’s health and research studies see Taking part in Research Studies: Fact Sheet for Women.

You can take part in research studies that matter most to you and your loved ones. To find a research study that is a good fit, see the information below.

We would like to help you get involved with the research studies that matter most to you and your loved ones. To find a research study that is a good fit, see the information below.

Finding a Study

Whether you are looking for studies on ClinicalTrials.gov or helping researchers find you on ResearchMatch, always keep the following in mind:

1. Your health status – Both healthy volunteers and those with medical conditions are needed in the research effort.

2. Your location – Finding studies close to home is often a requirement to be able to take part.

3. More information about you – Studies are done using groups based on their gender, ethnic group, and age, among other things. What makes you unique is what is needed the most.

Learn more:

• ResearchMatch
• ClinicalTrials.gov

Helping Researchers Find you on ResearchMatch

Why ResearchMatch? Fact: Recent surveys show that few Americans (less than 5%) know where to find out about research studies that are a good fit for them. Fact: Research volunteers are medical heroes. Why? Because behind every medical breakthrough and new treatment are thousands of people who take part in research studies.

ResearchMatch is one way to help match medical heroes with research studies. How? Think of posting your resume on line. Like a resume helps employers look for people to fill a role in their company, ResearchMatch is your research resume with details about you. This allows researchers to look for volunteers who may be a good fit for their study.

The NetWellness feature ResearchMatch and You – Making a Difference One Discovery at a Time gives a step-by-step guide about how ResearchMatch works and what you can do to take part in research. Once you put the details of your profile in ResearchMatch, it is kept secure. These details will only be shared when you agree to take part in a study.

Finding Studies on ClinicalTrials.gov

Many people want to take part in research studies. Finding a study that is the right fit for you or your loved one can be a challenge. ClinicalTrials.gov helps speed up the search by having a list of studies offered in the United States.

The search tool on ClinicalTrials.gov allows you to look for research studies that are as unique as you. This allows you to search by your gender, race, ethnicity, age, and condition. In any search that you do on ClinicalTrials.gov, it is important that you include your city and state in your search so that you can find trials that are happening close to home. The NetWellness feature How to Find a Clinical Research Study/Clinical Trial helps guide you to get the best results for your search.

Other Resources 

• Clinical Trials for Women (womenshealthresearch.org)
• Inclusion of Women in Research (NIH)
• Office of Research on Women?s Health (NIH)
• Research and Women’s Health Needs (womancando.org)
• Resources for Patients-Clinical Trials (womenshealth.gov)
• Taking Part in Research Studies: Fact Sheet For Women
• Clinical Trials: Women’s Health (centerwatch.org)

For more information:

Go to the Research Center health topic.