A new study confirms that a shorter course of radiation therapy, known as moderately hypofractionated radiotherapy (MHFRT), is just as effective as conventional radiation for men with localized prostate cancer. This approach delivers slightly higher doses of radiation per session, reducing the treatment duration from seven to eight weeks to just four to five weeks.
Key Findings
- Same Cancer Control Rates: Patients receiving MHFRT had the same success in controlling cancer as those undergoing conventional therapy.
- No Increased Side Effects: MHFRT does not raise the risk of long-term side effects like urinary or bowel issues compared to standard treatment.
Why This Matters
This shorter regimen allows patients to complete treatment faster without compromising safety or effectiveness. Researchers involved in the study emphasized that MHFRT should become the preferred standard for prostate cancer radiation therapy.
The findings, published in The Lancet Oncology, provide reassurance that patients can safely opt for fewer visits while achieving excellent outcomes. If you’re considering radiation therapy for prostate cancer, ask your doctor about MHFRT.
Recommended Reading
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Treatment & Management of Prostate Cancer
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Reference
Kishan AU, Sun Y, Tree AC, et al. Hypofractionated radiotherapy for prostate cancer (HYDRA): an individual patient data meta-analysis of randomised trials in the MARCAP consortium. Lancet Oncol. 2025 Mar 17:S1470-2045(25)00034-8.
