Over the last few years, ECFS and EuroCareCF have worked together to pave the way for an ECFS-Clinical Trial Network (ECFS-CTN). The aim of this network is to intensify clinical research in the field of CF in terms of quality and quantity to ensure people with CF in Europe and beyond have access to effective treatment as quickly as possible.
The ECFS-CTN is a network in which independent CF Centres that fulfil a certain set of criteria (number of patients, human resources, track record in clinical trials and infrastructure support) voluntarily form an alliance. In the first wave, 18 sites have been selected to constitute the network. This will allow the network to pilot working practices, ethical approval, standard operating procedures and interaction with sponsors. A second wave of recruitment, in 18-24 months, will encourage more centres to join the network. All interested sites will be solicited to participate in phase III studies that require a large number of patients.