Delivery of breast radiotherapy after surgery over one week is as safe previous longer standard treatment over five weeks and benefits patients and NHS services.

Impact: Health and wellbeing, Economic

Narrative

Our research as part of the multi-centre phase III FAST-forward trial confirmed that 26 Gy in five fractions is as effective and safe as an international standard 15-fraction regimen after primary surgery for early breast cancer. This was treatment was recommended in international guidelines for radiation therapy for breast cancer during the covid-19 pandemic as it facilitated fewer hospital visits for patients.

In June 2023, NICE guidance was updated to recommend this treatment as standard. NICE stated "This is already current practice in many centres... In those centres where 26 Gy in 5 fractions is not yet current practice, there will be significant cost savings and capacity will be released for more appointments."
Impact date2020
Category of impactHealth and wellbeing, Economic
Impact levelAdoption

Research Beacons, Institutes and Platforms

  • Cancer
  • Manchester Cancer Research Centre