Specific features of clinical research in radiotherapy in France

The aim of this article is to present the specifics of clinical research in radiotherapy in France, in order to facilitate the drafting of research protocols. The objectives of research are similar to those of any oncological research: to improve the therapeutic index and, if possible, the results in terms of survival. Phase III trials are still essential, but phase II trials provide interesting information on both the efficacy and tolerability of treatments. The particularities of radiotherapy trials are discussed in terms of inclusion criteria, judgment criteria and therapeutic modalities. The importance of quality control is emphasized. Finally, the difficulties of funding, which is usually academic, are discussed.