Israeli breakthrough could halve radiation sessions for prostate cancer patients

The study aims not only to improve patient experience but also to optimize healthcare resources.

By Pesach Benson, TPS

An Israeli medical breakthrough could cut in half the number of radiation treatments needed for prostate cancer patients.

Prostate cancer remains one of the most common malignancies among men worldwide, with approximately 2,500 new cases diagnosed annually in Israel.

Half of these are detected early, when radiation therapy is a highly effective treatment option. However, the current standard of five sessions requires significant time, preparation, and emotional resilience from patients.

Research conducted by doctors at the Davidoff Comprehensive Cancer Center at Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of delivering high-dose external beam radiation therapy for prostate cancer in just two sessions, without compromising safety or outcomes.

“Reducing the number of radiation treatments from five to two can significantly ease the physical and emotional toll on patients, making the treatment process more tolerable,” said Dr. Elisha Fredman, who led the research.

“Treating patients more efficiently also allows them to start therapy sooner, benefiting everyone involved.”

Fredman drew inspiration from a more invasive approach called brachytherapy. This technique involves the surgical implantation of radioactive particles into the prostate, effectively treating the cancer in just two sessions.

Building on this concept, Dr. Fredman developed a non-invasive alternative using external beam radiation, delivering high doses over two sessions instead of five.

The study aims not only to improve patient experience but also to optimize healthcare resources.

By shortening treatment schedules, the hospital can treat more patients and reduce waiting times, all while minimizing long-term side effects.

Although similar studies are underway in New York, London, and Toronto, Fredman’s study is expected to surpass these in scale, marking a significant milestone in global cancer research.

Since the study’s inception, more than 40 patients have participated, with promising results. “The response to treatment has been excellent so far, with no unusual side effects,” Fredman reported.