Precision Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer Cuts Treatment Sessions from 20 to Five
Advanced radiotherapy for prostate cancer to cut – England’s healthcare system is set to expand access to a groundbreaking radiotherapy approach for men with prostate cancer, significantly reducing the number of required treatment sessions. The technique, known as SABR (stereotactic ablative radiotherapy), promises to deliver high-precision doses directly to tumors, potentially slashing the usual 20 sessions down to just five. This shift is expected to ease the physical and emotional strain on patients while improving their quality of life during treatment.
A Targeted Approach with Fewer Doses
SABR, already utilized for lung and brain cancers, is now being introduced for low- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer cases. Doctors emphasize that this method offers a more focused attack on the disease, minimizing damage to healthy tissue. NHS England announced that all 48 radiotherapy centers across the country will begin offering the treatment “within weeks,” marking its first large-scale availability outside clinical trials.
Approximately 55,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer annually in England, with around 17,500 classified as low or intermediate risk. Modeling indicates that about 3,500 of these individuals may opt for SABR, largely due to its shorter duration compared to traditional therapies. Some low-risk patients choose active monitoring instead of immediate treatment, as these cancers often progress slowly and may not require urgent intervention.
“This technology allows us to concentrate a powerful and accurate beam of radiation on the cancer, reducing harm to surrounding healthy cells,” explained Prof Peter Johnson, National Clinical Director for Cancer. “The reduction in treatment frequency will help men return to their daily routines much faster.”
Patient Experience and Future Prospects
Edwin Lambert, a 70-year-old from Suffolk, is among the first to benefit from the trial. Diagnosed in January 2025, he initially underwent hormone therapy but experienced side effects such as fatigue and mood swings. Switching to SABR, he noted the treatment was “easier to deal with,” allowing him to maintain his lifestyle. “I saw men on traditional radiotherapy looking dreadful,” he said. “This method made a huge difference.”
Prostate Cancer UK welcomed the move, calling it “wonderful news” for patients. The charity hopes the treatment will eventually reach even more individuals. Ongoing trials aim to determine if SABR can also be effective for high-risk prostate cancer cases, potentially expanding its use nationwide.
“It will greatly reduce the burden cancer places on patients and their loved ones,” said Amy Rylance of Prostate Cancer UK. “This is a major step forward in making care more efficient and patient-friendly.”
