International Clinical Trial Day
Every year on May 20th, we celebrate International Clinical Trials Day (ICTD) to honor the start of modern clinical research. The date marks the day in 1747 when Scottish doctor James Lind began a groundbreaking study on sailors suffering from scurvy, a disease caused by severe vitamin C deficiency. By testing different treatments, he helped lay the foundation for today’s clinical trials.
ICTD was launched in 2005 by the European Clinical Research Infrastructure Network (ECRIN) as a way to recognize the vital role that clinical research plays in improving health. It’s a chance for researchers, healthcare professionals, and the public to come together, share knowledge, and highlight the progress made through clinical trials.
Each year, ECRIN hosts an international event to mark the occasion, bringing together people from across Europe and beyond. Inspired by its success, many countries have introduced their own national and international celebrations.
Clinical trials are essential for developing safe and effective treatments. ICTD reminds us of how far we’ve come—and how collaboration in research continues to shape the future of medicine.
Want to learn more about how clinical trials work? Visit our educational page. If you're interested in taking part in a study, you can search for clinical trials and get in touch here.