Explore popular diseases in clinical trials

Check which popular diseases are currently being frequently studied.

See also our rare diseases glossary and drug database.

Starting by letter

To open the diseases glossary, select a letter from the list below.

Most popular diseases

The list below features the most popular diseases currently involved in ongoing clinical trials.

Disease trials
Non-small cell lung cancer 228
Breast cancer 94
Obesity 86
Prostate cancer 73
Colorectal cancer 69
Ovarian cancer 66
Non-small cell lung cancer metastatic 66
Crohn’s disease 61
Type 2 diabetes mellitus 54
Rheumatoid arthritis 54
Triple negative breast cancer 52
Hormone receptor positive HER2 negative breast cancer 52
Asthma 51
Acute myeloid leukaemia 50
Squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck 50
Chronic kidney disease 49
Neoplasm 48
Colorectal cancer metastatic 47
Hepatocellular carcinoma 47
Systemic lupus erythematosus 40
Colitis ulcerative 40
Multiple sclerosis 39
Overweight 39
Dementia Alzheimer’s type 39
Gastric cancer 38
Myelodysplastic syndrome 37
Parkinson’s disease 37
HER2 positive breast cancer 37
Glioblastoma 37
Atrial fibrillation 34
Bladder cancer 34
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 33
Ischaemic stroke 33
Prostate cancer metastatic 33
Myasthenia gravis 32
Renal transplant 31
Type 1 diabetes mellitus 31
Head and neck cancer 31
Endometrial cancer 31
Malignant melanoma 31
Non-small cell lung cancer stage IV 31
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma 31
Breast cancer metastatic 31
HIV infection 30
Dermatitis atopic 28
Cholangiocarcinoma 28
Coronary artery disease 28
Plasma cell myeloma 28
Pulmonary arterial hypertension 28
Neoplasm malignant 27
Rectal cancer 27
Renal cell carcinoma 26
Pancreatic carcinoma 26
Schizophrenia 26
Duchenne muscular dystrophy 25
Non-small cell lung cancer stage III 25
Follicular lymphoma 25
COVID-19 25
Migraine 24
Hormone receptor positive breast cancer 24
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis 24
Non-small cell lung cancer stage IIIB 24
Sepsis 24
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia 24
Soft tissue sarcoma 24
Mantle cell lymphoma 23
Small cell lung cancer extensive stage 23
Colon cancer 23
Fallopian tube cancer 23
Influenza 22
Small cell lung cancer 21
Interstitial lung disease 21
Acute myocardial infarction 21
Oesophageal adenocarcinoma 21
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 21
Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps 20
Cystic fibrosis 20
Glioma 20
Myelofibrosis 19
Neuroblastoma 19
B-cell lymphoma 19
Sickle cell disease 19
Major depression 19
Procedural pain 19
Axial spondyloarthritis 18
Osteoarthritis 18
Breast cancer female 17
Critical illness 17
Acute kidney injury 17
Hereditary angioedema 17
Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis 16
Acute coronary syndrome 16
IgA nephropathy 16
Psoriasis 16
Gastrooesophageal cancer 16
Ewing’s sarcoma 16
Cardiac failure 16
Vitiligo 16
Transitional cell carcinoma 15
Giant cell arteritis 15

Diseases starting with s

  • 4

    Salivary gland cancer

    Salivary gland cancer is a rare disease that forms in the glands that produce saliva in your mouth and throat. Although uncommon, it requires specialized care and attention, as the type and location of the tumor significantly affects treatment and recovery.

  • 1

    SAPHO syndrome

    SAPHO syndrome is a rare condition that combines bone and joint inflammation with skin problems, creating a unique challenge for both patients and doctors trying to understand and manage this complex disorder.

  • 4

    Sarcoidosis

    Sarcoidosis is a condition where the immune system overreacts and forms tiny lumps called granulomas in various organs of the body, most commonly in the lungs and lymph nodes, though it can affect almost any part of the body including the skin, eyes, heart, and nervous system.

  • 9

    Sarcoma

    Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that begins in the bones and soft tissues of the body. Although sarcomas make up only 1% of all adult cancers, they require specialized care from expert teams who understand how to treat these complex diseases.

  • 1

    Sarcoma metastatic

    Sarcoma metastatic is a rare and serious condition where cancer that starts in the bones or soft tissues has spread to distant parts of the body, most commonly the lungs.

  • 3

    Schizoaffective disorder

    Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition that combines symptoms of both schizophrenia and mood disorders, affecting how people think, feel, and perceive reality. This rare condition affects approximately 3 in every 1,000 people and requires specialized treatment to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

  • 1

    Schizoaffective disorder depressive type

    Schizoaffective disorder depressive type is a complex mental health condition that combines symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions, with persistent episodes of depression. Understanding this condition is the first step toward effective treatment and better quality of life.

  • 29

    Schizophrenia

    Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition that changes how people think, feel, and behave, affecting approximately 1 in 345 people worldwide. While living with this condition can be challenging, effective treatments including medication and therapy can help many people manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

  • 1

    Schizophreniform disorder

    Schizophreniform disorder is a mental health condition that causes symptoms similar to schizophrenia—including hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking—but with a critical difference: these symptoms last between one and six months, not a lifetime.

  • 1

    Sciatica

    Sciatica affects about 40% of people during their lifetime, causing pain that radiates from the lower back down through the leg. While it can be debilitating, most people recover with time and self-care, though understanding its causes and treatment options is essential for effective management.

  • 1

    Scleroderma associated digital ulcer

    Digital ulcers are painful, open wounds that affect approximately half of all people with scleroderma at some point during their disease, significantly impacting hand function and quality of life.

  • 0

    Scoliosis

    Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways, often forming a C or S shape, instead of being straight. While most cases are mild and don’t cause symptoms, it can sometimes lead to back pain and uneven posture. This condition affects millions of people worldwide and is most commonly diagnosed during adolescence.

  • 7

    Seasonal allergy

    Seasonal allergies affect millions of people, turning beautiful spring days and sunny summers into times of sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. When trees bloom and grasses grow, your body may mistake harmless pollen for a dangerous invader, causing uncomfortable symptoms that can last for weeks or months.

  • 6

    Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis

    Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis is a stage of MS where symptoms gradually worsen over time. It develops after relapsing-remitting MS, when the pattern of flare-ups and recovery periods changes to steady progression. While there’s no cure, treatments and lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms and support independence.

  • 1

    Seizure

    A seizure is a surge of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that can cause temporary changes in awareness, muscle control, behavior, and senses. Anyone can experience a seizure at any age, and understanding the different types, causes, and treatments can help you or your loved ones manage this condition more effectively.

  • 1

    Selective polysaccharide antibody deficiency

    Selective polysaccharide antibody deficiency is a condition where the immune system fails to produce protective antibodies against certain bacteria, even though overall antibody levels remain normal. This leaves affected individuals vulnerable to repeated respiratory infections caused by bacteria with sugar-coated surfaces.

  • 1

    Senile dementia

    Senile dementia is an outdated term that historically referred to age-related mental decline in older adults, but it incorrectly implies that serious memory and thinking problems are a normal part of aging when they are not.

  • 24

    Sepsis

    Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency that happens when your body’s response to an infection causes damage to its own tissues and organs. It is one of the most frequent causes of death worldwide, requiring immediate medical attention and treatment to improve chances of survival.

  • 12

    Septic shock

    Septic shock is the most severe stage of sepsis, a life-threatening condition that occurs when your body’s response to an infection spirals dangerously out of control, causing extremely low blood pressure and organ failure.

  • 1

    Serous cystadenocarcinoma ovary

    Serous cystadenocarcinoma is the most common form of ovarian cancer, accounting for about three out of four cases. This cancer begins in the cells that line the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the abdomen’s inner lining, and often grows and spreads quickly.

  • 9

    Severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy

    Severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy is a rare seizure disorder that begins in the first year of life in previously healthy babies, characterized by prolonged seizures often triggered by fever and leading to developmental challenges as the child grows.

  • 0

    Sexual dysfunction

    Sexual dysfunction is a common problem that can affect anyone at any age, preventing you from feeling pleasure or satisfaction from sexual activity. While many people find it difficult to talk about, this condition is highly treatable, and understanding its causes and solutions can help you and your partner enjoy a healthier, more fulfilling sex life.

  • 1

    Shock

    Shock is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when your body doesn’t have enough blood flowing through it to keep your organs working properly. Without quick treatment, shock can lead to permanent organ damage or death.

  • 4

    Short stature

    Short stature is when a child’s height falls well below what is typical for their age and sex. While most children with short stature are healthy and have no medical problems, understanding growth patterns can help families know when to seek medical advice.

  • 1

    Short stature homeobox gene mutation

    Changes in the SHOX gene, located on the sex chromosomes, can lead to a range of conditions affecting growth and bone development, from mild short stature to more severe skeletal abnormalities that impact daily activities.

  • 7

    Short-bowel syndrome

    Short bowel syndrome is a serious condition that occurs when the body cannot absorb enough nutrients and fluids from food because part of the small intestine is missing or damaged. This rare disorder affects how your body processes the food you eat and requires specialized care to manage.

  • 1

    Shprintzen-Goldberg syndrome

    Shprintzen-Goldberg syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects multiple parts of the body, causing distinctive skull and facial features, skeletal problems, and developmental challenges that vary widely from person to person.

  • 9

    Sickle cell anaemia

    Sickle cell anaemia is a serious inherited blood disorder where red blood cells become rigid and crescent-shaped, blocking blood flow and causing pain, infections, and organ damage throughout life.

  • 2

    Sickle cell anaemia with crisis

    When sickle-shaped blood cells block vessels in the body, they trigger painful episodes known as sickle cell crises. These sudden events are a common complication that people with sickle cell disease face throughout their lives.

  • 19

    Sickle cell disease

    Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited blood disorders that causes red blood cells to become rigid and crescent-shaped, blocking blood flow and leading to severe pain, infections, and organ damage throughout the body.

  • 1

    Sinus rhythm

    Sinus rhythm is the normal rhythm of a healthy heart, where electrical signals begin in the sinus node and travel through the heart in a regular pattern, causing it to beat steadily at 60 to 100 beats per minute in adults.

  • 1

    Sinusitis bacterial

    Bacterial sinusitis is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the hollow spaces around your nose, often developing after a cold or viral infection that won’t go away. While most sinus infections are caused by viruses and clear up on their own, bacterial sinusitis may require different treatment to help you feel better.

  • 14

    Sjogren’s syndrome

    Sjogren’s syndrome is a long-term autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the glands that produce moisture, leading to widespread dryness throughout the body, especially in the eyes and mouth.

  • 1

    Skin angiosarcoma

    Skin angiosarcoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the lining of blood vessels and lymph vessels, most commonly appearing on the head, neck, and scalp, often resembling a bruise that grows and changes over time.

  • 1

    Skin bacterial infection

    Bacterial skin infections occur when harmful bacteria enter your body through breaks in the skin, and while many are mild and easily treated, some can become serious or even life-threatening if not properly managed.

  • 4

    Skin cancer

    Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting about 1 in 5 people at some point in their lives. While most types can be cured if caught early, understanding the signs, risk factors, and ways to protect yourself is essential for prevention and early detection.

  • 1

    Skin candida

    Skin candida, also known as cutaneous candidiasis, is a yeast infection that affects the skin when a type of fungus called Candida grows out of control. While it commonly causes itchy, red rashes in warm, moist areas of the body, it can usually be treated effectively with antifungal medications and improved hygiene.

  • 0

    Skin disorder

    Skin disorders affect millions of people worldwide and include all conditions that irritate, inflame, or change the appearance of your skin, ranging from minor issues to serious health concerns.

  • 2

    Skin neoplasm excision

    Surgical excision is a common and effective procedure to remove skin cancers and other abnormal growths from the skin, typically performed in a doctor’s office using local anesthesia.

  • 1

    Skin papilloma

    Skin papillomas are small, benign growths that appear on the skin, most commonly caused by a viral infection. While they are generally harmless, understanding their nature, causes, and treatment options can help you make informed decisions about managing these common skin changes.

  • 1

    Skin squamous cell carcinoma metastatic

    When skin squamous cell carcinoma spreads beyond its original location to other parts of the body, it becomes a life-threatening condition that requires specialized treatment approaches and careful medical management.

  • 1

    Skin squamous cell carcinoma recurrent

    Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin can return after treatment, presenting challenges for patients and healthcare providers alike. Understanding recurrence patterns, risk factors, and available treatment options is essential for managing this condition effectively.

  • 1

    Skin ulcer

    A skin ulcer is an open wound that develops when poor blood circulation prevents injuries from healing properly, often affecting the legs, feet, back, and hips, with older people being more commonly affected.

  • 3

    Skin wrinkling

    Wrinkles are a natural part of aging that everyone experiences, appearing as lines, creases, or folds on the skin, most commonly on the face, neck, hands, and arms.

  • 3

    Sleep disorder

    Sleep disorders are conditions that disrupt your ability to get the quality rest your body needs. More than 50 million people in the United States live with a sleep disorder, affecting their physical health, mental wellbeing, and daily functioning.

  • 0

    Small cell carcinoma

    Small cell carcinoma is a rare, fast-growing type of cancer that most often develops in the lungs, though it can occasionally appear in other body sites. Strongly linked to tobacco smoking, this aggressive cancer tends to spread quickly throughout the body, but treatments can help many patients live longer and, in some cases, even lead to cure.

  • 21

    Small cell lung cancer

    Small cell lung cancer is a rare, fast-growing type of lung cancer that typically affects people with a history of smoking. While it often spreads quickly, it responds well to treatment initially, though finding better long-term solutions remains a critical challenge for patients and doctors alike.

  • 22

    Small cell lung cancer extensive stage

    Extensive stage small cell lung cancer is an aggressive form of lung cancer that has spread beyond a single area of the chest. While there is no cure for this stage, modern treatments including chemotherapy and immunotherapy can help patients live longer and improve their quality of life.

  • 6

    Small cell lung cancer limited stage

    Limited-stage small cell lung cancer is a type of lung cancer where the disease is confined to one area of the chest that can be treated with radiation therapy to a single area. Although small cell lung cancer is aggressive and fast-growing, limited-stage disease is potentially curable when found early and treated properly.

  • 8

    Small cell lung cancer metastatic

    Small cell lung cancer is an aggressive disease that spreads rapidly throughout the body. Around 70% of people receive their diagnosis when cancer has already spread to lymph nodes or other organs, making early detection and treatment critical to improving survival.

  • 1

    Small fibre neuropathy

    Small fibre neuropathy is a nerve condition that causes severe pain attacks, typically starting in the feet or hands, and can significantly affect your quality of life despite not being life-threatening.

  • 1

    Small for dates baby

    When a baby is born smaller than expected for the number of weeks of pregnancy, parents naturally worry. While most small babies are simply on the smaller side and perfectly healthy, understanding what “small for gestational age” means can help families navigate this experience with greater confidence.

  • 3

    Small intestine adenocarcinoma

    Small intestine adenocarcinoma is a rare cancer that forms in the glandular cells lining the small intestine. Despite the small intestine making up 90% of the digestive tract, only 3 to 5% of digestive tract cancers occur there, making diagnosis challenging and often delayed.

  • 0

    Small intestine carcinoma

    Small intestine carcinoma is one of the rarest types of cancer affecting the digestive system, representing only 3% of gastrointestinal cancers in the United States. Despite its rarity, understanding its symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options is crucial for early detection and improved outcomes.

  • 0

    Small intestine carcinoma metastatic

    Small intestine carcinoma metastatic is cancer that has spread from the small intestine to other parts of the body. Understanding this advanced stage of a rare cancer can help patients and families navigate treatment options and manage expectations.

  • 1

    Small intestine leiomyosarcoma

    Small intestine leiomyosarcoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the smooth muscle cells of the small bowel. Early diagnosis is challenging because the tumor grows slowly and may not cause symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage, making surgical removal the cornerstone of treatment.

  • 1

    Small intestine neuroendocrine tumour

    Small intestine neuroendocrine tumours are rare cancers that develop in special hormone-making cells of the small bowel. While uncommon, they are one of the most frequent types of cancer found in the small intestine, and many people live with them for years with proper care and treatment.

  • 24

    Soft tissue sarcoma

    Soft tissue sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that starts in the body’s connective tissues, including muscles, fat, blood vessels, and nerves. Though these cancers can develop anywhere in the body, they most commonly appear in the arms, legs, and abdomen.

  • 1

    Solitary fibrous tumour

    Solitary fibrous tumours are rare growths that can develop almost anywhere in the body, most commonly around the lungs. While they usually grow slowly and may not cause symptoms for years, understanding these tumours is important for proper diagnosis and treatment.

  • 1

    Somatic symptom disorder

    Somatic symptom disorder is a mental health condition where people experience extreme distress about physical symptoms like pain or fatigue, causing significant problems in daily life. The symptoms themselves are real, but the person’s reaction to them is excessive and out of proportion.