Shortened Breast Radiation Therapy May be as Effective as Traditional 5-7 Weeks

According to a recent study presented at the 51st Annual Meeting of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), a shortened, more intensive course of radiation given to the whole breast, along with an extra dose of radiation given to the surgical bed of the tumor (concomitant boost), has been shown to result in excellent local control at a median follow up of two years after treatment with no significant side effects.

In addition to taking half the time, the cost of a shortened course of treatment would be lower relative to the standard whole breast radiation, and is also less expensive than other new approaches, like partial breast irradiation (breast brachytherapy).

November 6, 2009