Every year on May 20, the global research community comes together to recognize International Clinical Trials Day (ICTD)—a moment to reflect on the importance of clinical trials in improving health outcomes and saving lives.
This day marks the anniversary of James Lind’s pioneering clinical trial in 1747, which laid the foundation for evidence-based medicine. Today, clinical trials remain one of our most powerful tools in developing new treatments, improving care, and fostering innovation in health research.
At Clinical Trials Ontario (CTO), we’re proud to join the international community in celebrating this day and the people who make clinical trials possible—patients and participants, researchers and coordinators, ethics boards and institutions, sponsors, health charities and innovation organizations and everyone working behind the scenes.
This Year’s Focus: The Importance of Research Ethics Review
For ICTD 2025, we’re shining a spotlight on the importance of research ethics review in the efficiency, accessibility, and equity of clinical trials.
Why focus on ethics review? Because ethics review is the essential first step in successful clinical trials. High-quality, effective, and consistent ethics oversight ensures that clinical trials are conducted with respect, safety, and fairness, while also helping accelerate access to research opportunities and the novel therapies that come with them.
Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing stories, tools, and insights that highlight how ethics review is evolving.
Join the Celebration
We invite you to:
- Follow along on our Twitter and LinkedIn for highlights, reflections, and updates throughout the week
- Explore our #ICTD2025 page for resources and stories from across the clinical trials ecosystem
- Share your own reflections using #ICTD2025 and help us spread awareness of the incredible work being done in clinical trials
Let’s celebrate the progress we’ve made—and the people behind it—together.