Conventionally, the standard radiotherapy course for early-stage breast cancer treatment post-surgery takes about 3 weeks to complete. In recent years, researchers have proven in a multi-centre clinical trial that a shortened course of radiation over 1 week works just as well in terms of safety and effectiveness, compared to the conventional standard 3-weeks regimen. This trial, also known as “FAST-Forward” with its shortened course of radiotherapy has since revolutionalised the treatment of early-stage breast cancer in some parts of the world such as the United Kingdom.
At Beacon Hospital, Malaysia, we will be pioneering to offer our breast cancer patients this 1-week radiotherapy programme as part of the array of treatment options.
