A series of videos aimed at people who may be considering taking part in a cancer trial has been launched.

The six videos come from Cancer Trials Ireland, which is responsible for coordinating cancer trials in this country. Since its establishment in 1996, over 15,000 people have participated in more than 350 cancer trials.

Last year alone, 14 hospital-based research units were working on over 150 trials involving more than 6,300 patients.

According to Cancer Trials CEO, Eibhlin Mulroe, the idea of taking part in a cancer trial can be unnerving for some patients and their families.

"Being diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment can turn your world upside down. Considering a cancer trial on top of that can be unsettling. Because these short videos feature people who have themselves been directly involved in trials, they tell us in a very authentic way what it is like to take part in a cancer trial. We really appreciate them sharing their experiences publically," she explained.

The videos aim to give people an insight into what they can expect if they do decide to take part in a trial.

"We hope they will encourage more people to consider the option of a cancer trial and very importantly, ask their health care professional whether there is a suitable trial for them," Ms Mulroe said.

The videos form part of Cancer Trials Ireland's ‘Just Ask' campaign, which aims to encourage patients and their families to ask about cancer trials, which could provide access to treatments that show promise, but are not yet available outside of a trial

Treatments provided as part of a cancer trial are free of charge and patients are closely monitored by their consultant and local research team throughout the process.

The videos are available to view here. Cancer Trials Ireland has also published a leaflet on the top 10 questions people may have about trials. It can be viewed here