Breakthrough Study Confirms One-Week Radiotherapy as Effective as Traditional Three-Week Regimen for Breast Cancer

A decade-long clinical trial presented at ESTRO 2025 has demonstrated that a condensed one-week radiotherapy course is just as safe and effective as the standard three-week treatment for early-stage breast cancer. The extensive FAST-Forward trial, involving over 4,000 patients across the UK, confirmed that delivering radiotherapy in a five-day schedule provides comparable cancer control and long-term safety without increasing side effects.

The study’s findings are significant, offering a more convenient and accessible treatment option for breast cancer patients worldwide. Shortened radiotherapy schedules can reduce the number of hospital visits, alleviate pressure on healthcare resources, and improve the patient experience, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Participants were followed for ten years, with results showing that the hypofractionated schedule maintains efficacy similar to the traditional three-week plan. This development marks a crucial shift in clinical practice, supported by previous five-year outcomes that already influenced treatment protocols.

Lead researcher Professor Murray Brunt emphasized that this approach benefits breast cancer patients by providing a safe, efficient, and less burdensome treatment. Co-leader Professor Judith Bliss highlighted that reducing treatment duration enhances patient convenience and expands access, especially for those with limited ability to attend frequent hospital visits.

The trial compared the standard 40Gy in 15 treatments over three weeks with a shorter regimen of 26-27Gy in five treatments. The findings underscore the importance of optimizing radiotherapy delivery to maximize benefits for patients and healthcare systems alike.

This research underscores the ongoing evolution of cancer care, demonstrating how innovative treatment strategies can improve outcomes and resource utilization, reinforcing the vital role of radiotherapy in managing breast cancer.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-week-breast-cancer-radiotherapy-proven.html