Clinical trials are research studies that prospectively assign individuals to one or more interventions to evaluate their effects on health outcomes. These interventions include medicines, vaccines, medical devices, procedures, and public health and health systems interventions. In the Americas, clinical trials are essential for generating high-quality evidence, strengthening evidence-based decision-making, and responding to public health priorities and emergencies. PAHO promotes ethical, efficient, and collaborative clinical trials in the Region.
- Clinical trials enable the identification of safe, effective, and high-quality interventions.
- They are not limited to medicines or devices; they also include public health and health systems interventions.
- Large-scale and collaborative trials generate stronger and more relevant evidence for public health.
- Public registration of clinical trials is key to transparency and scientific integrity.
- Rigorous ethical review and efficient regulation protect participants and strengthen public trust.
- Ethical and regulatory harmonization reduces delays without compromising protection.
- They are essential for evidence-based health policies and programs.
- Gaps in capacity, coordination, and regulatory frameworks persist in the Region.
- Regional networks facilitate high-impact multicenter trials.
PAHO supports countries in the Region in strengthening clinical trials through the PAHO’s Clinical Trial Accelerator, a regional initiative aimed at improving efficiency, quality, and impact of clinical research. PAHO promotes regional cooperation, strengthens national capacities, supports ethical and regulatory governance, and facilitates access to information, tools, and good practices through the Clinical Trials Portal of the Americas.
