Cancer Research UK main site

Reduced Radiotherapy

w31end
Offline

Hi Everyone,

I was diagnosed in January 2020 with Stage 2 Mixed Invasive Ductal & Lobula Carcinoma. I have had lumpectomy surgery and lymph node removal and I have now been measured and marked ready for radiotherapy - has anybody out there also been advised that the usual 3 week radiotherapy is being reduced to 1 week only? I do understand the current risks while the world is ill with Covid-19 and I do appreciate that I am receiving treatment however I am worried that this reduction is putting me at a high risk of recurrence. My Consultant said this has been a new process "on the cards" for a while, however if that is truly the case why haven't we heard about it before now!  
 

Sending love and hugs to you all and your families

  • Offline

    Hi there!

    I should be here to introduce myself, but I saw your question and hope I can help.

    I have had breast cancer twice. 3 years ago, I had the 15 treatments over three weeks, but I have just finished radiotherapy this time, and I had the 5 treatments over a week....absolutely brilliant!

    I asked my Oncologist about it, and it was explained to me that at each treatment you get a much stronger dose of radiation, but in the same time, ie about 15 minutes. The side effects appear to be roughly the same.

    I believe that the study was carried out in the USA, and I was also told that it was due to be introduced in the future, but that due to Covid-19, some areas have brought the change forward.

    I for one, am very glad they did! It also means that many more people can be treated, which can only be a good thing.

    Wishing you all the best x

  • Offline in reply to NikiD

    Whoops, I'm new to this site and looks like I posted in the wrong area

    Sorry to hear that your breast cancer returned and I wish you love and better days to come.

    Thank you so very much for your response as this has helped me to relax and just try to get through the next stage without adding to my already fragile mind x

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.