Guidance for the treatment of breast cancer patients now recommends fewer radiotherapy sessions over a shorter period of time.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has taken lessons learned during the pandemic and updated guidance to improve patient outcomes and experience.
Professor Pat Price, chair of Radiotherapy UK, commented:
“This is a strong example of how advances in radiotherapy, which saves lives, are making a positive difference for cancer patients.
“It reduces the amount of time they need to spend in hospital and cuts down on their travel costs, which means less time and money lost to illness, and more for actual quality life experiences.
“We are highlighting that this is just one example of innovative radiotherapy technologies that have the potential to transform patient care through more precise, effective and personalised treatments.
“In turn this can improve outcomes and reduce side-effects, another huge win.
“To achieve this, the government need to increase investment in radiotherapy and implement other proven radiotherapy technologies: just as many other countries have already done, for the benefit of cancer patients.
“With ambition, planning and funding, UK governments can lead on world-class radiotherapy services.”
