Beginning in June 2004, researchers studied 112 women with early-stage breast cancer who received accelerated hypofractionated whole breast irradiation plus concomitant boost. The results were reported on 105 patients who had completed therapy and had a minimum six-month follow up. The patient group had small breast tumors that had not spread to the lymph nodes. Women with early-stage breast cancer who received chemotherapy or underwent radiation to the lymph nodes were excluded from the study. Patients were followed at regular intervals after completion of treatment.

Findings show that the cancer did not return to the original site or to the surrounding region in these women. The median follow-up of the study was two years. Survival was greater than 95 percent for patients with five years of follow up. The study also shows there were no significant physical or cosmetic side effects from the radiation treatment.

In an era of personalized care, Dr. Chadha emphasizes, "Women with early-stage breast cancer interested in this shorter course should ask their radiation oncologists about this option to evaluate whether it is suitable for their individual case."

Source: American Society for Radiation Oncology