Clinical trials for stem cell and bone marrow transplant patients are an important tool for identifying new and more effective treatments for many diseases. This presentation describes the design and conduct of such trials and what patients need to know to make a truly informed decision about whether to join a trial.

Bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cell transplants are a potential cure for many people with a life-threatening disease. Family members may be tested to determine if they can donate bone marrow or peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) to a relative who needs a transplant. This presentation reviews the procedures, risks, benefits and safety of donating bone marrow or PBSCs to a relative.