The Gynaecological Oncology Service in NHS Lothian is a research-active department, working closely with the University of Edinburgh and national and international research partners.
Research is a core part of how we improve care. By embedding research into everyday clinical practice, we are able to continually evaluate and improve how gynaecological cancers are diagnosed, treated, and followed up.
What this means for patients
Being treated in a research-active department means that:
- Patients may have access to the latest advances in cancer care, including new treatments, technologies, and personalised approaches
- Care pathways are informed by the most up-to-date evidence
- Patients may be offered opportunities to take part in research studies or clinical trials
- Clinical research helps improve outcomes not only for those taking part, but also for future patients. Many of today’s standard treatments exist because previous patients chose to participate in research.
Taking part in research
Participation in research is always optional.
- You can decide not to take part, and this will not affect your care in any way
- If you do choose to take part, you can withdraw at any point
- All studies are carefully reviewed and regulated to ensure patient safety, confidentiality, and ethical standards
- Patients may have access to the latest advances in cancer care, including new treatments, technologies, and personalised approaches
- Care pathways are informed by the most up-to-date evidence
- Patients may be offered opportunities to take part in research studies or clinical trials
Clinical research helps improve outcomes not only for those taking part, but also for future patients. Many of today’s standard treatments exist because previous patients chose to participate in research.
If you are interested in research opportunities, please let a member of your clinical team know. They can discuss whether any current studies may be suitable for you and answer any questions you may have.
How research is supported
Much of our research is made possible through the support of charities and research organisations dedicated to improving outcomes for women with gynaecological cancers. These include organisations such as The Eve Appeal and Cancer Research UK, whose funding supports clinical trials, laboratory research, and patient-centred studies.
Patients and members of the public can also choose to support research locally. Donations to our local research teams help fund new studies, support specialist staff, and accelerate progress in prevention, early detection, and treatment.
Find out more
Further information about our research programmes, current studies, and how research is integrated into patient care can be found here: Research | Centre for Reproductive Health | Centre for Reproductive Health
