A shorter, higher-dose radiation treatment for prostate cancer is just as safe and effective as conventional radiotherapy, according to a UCLA co-led study published Wednesday.
The study evaluated isodose moderately hypofractionated radiotherapy (MHFRT), which delivers slightly higher doses of radiation per session, shortening treatment from seven to eight weeks down to four to five weeks. Researchers found that MHFRT had the same cancer control rates as conventional radiotherapy, with no increased risk of long-term side effects affecting the bladder or intestines.
“We believe these data strongly support that isodose MHFRT should become the preferred standard of care for prostate cancer,” Dr. Amar Kishan, executive vice chair of radiation oncology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, said in a statement.
Researchers analyzed data from more than 5,800 patients in seven clinical trials to compare standard therapy with two forms of MHFRT. The study found that isodose MHFRT had a five-year progression-free survival rate of 77.0%, similar to 75.6% with conventional treatment.
“Patients can safely opt for a shorter treatment schedule without compromising their outcomes, ensuring they receive effective care with fewer visits and minimal added risk. Less time in treatment can still mean the best possible results,” Kishan said.
The study was co-authored by researchers from UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, with funding from the Department of Defense and the National Institutes of Health.
The findings were published in the Lancet Oncology, and it can be found at thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(25)00034-8/abstract.