Cornwall patients help pave the way for faster, more precise prostate cancer treatment on the NHS

Patients in Cornwall have helped pave the way for a new, faster form of prostate cancer treatment now being rolled out across the NHS.

NHS England has announced that thousands of men with prostate cancer will be offered the high-powered precision radiotherapy, known as stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), to target the disease more effectively, helping reduce side-effects and reducing the number of courses of treatment required.

We have supported patients to take part in the clinical trials that helped demonstrate the effectiveness of the treatment.

Dr John McGrane, Consultant Oncologist, said: “We’re proud that patients from Cornwall contributed to the research behind this national rollout. We are delighted to have taken part in the PACE trials that have transformed radiotherapy delivery for prostate cancer patients.”

SABR delivers radiotherapy to the tumour from many different directions to help reduce the risk of cancer spreading or returning. For patients, the treatment can be delivered in just 5 sessions over 2 weeks, compared with around 20 sessions over a month.

John added: “For our patients, and especially those who live in rural areas, this means fewer hospital visits and less disruption to their daily lives, which can make a significant difference to both their wellbeing and their families. This is a significant step forward in prostate cancer care, offering treatment that is not only highly effective but also far more convenient for patients.”

John also hosts the Simply Oncology Podcast with his colleague Dr Michael Rowe, where they break down the complexities of cancer care into clear, compassionate, and accessible conversations for patients and anyone interested in the field of oncology.