Adaptive Versus Non-adaptive Radiotherapy and 2 Bladder Filling Instructions for Patients with Intermediate or High Risk Localized Prostate Cancer (ARP)
This study is for men with prostate cancer that hasn't spread. We're comparing two types of radiotherapy: one that's the same each time, and another that's adjusted daily to your body in case it has changed. We're also testing two different sets of instructions on how much water to drink before treatment, to see if specific advice helps. The main aim is to find out if personalising your radiotherapy or bladder instructions can lead to fewer side effects and better results for your treatment. We want to make radiotherapy as effective and comfortable as possible for patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is looking into ways to make radiotherapy for prostate cancer even better. Radiotherapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. For men with prostate cancer that's localised (meaning it hasn't spread to other parts of the body), radiotherapy is a common and effective treatment. We want to see if we can reduce side effects and improve how the treatment works.
We're focusing on two key areas. First, we're comparing traditional radiotherapy with a newer approach called "daily adaptive radiotherapy." With adaptive radiotherapy, doctors can adjust the treatment plan slightly each day to account for small changes in your body, like how full your bladder is or how your internal organs are positioned. This might help protect healthy tissues nearby from the radiation.
Secondly, we're testing two different sets of instructions about how to prepare your bladder for treatment. Having your bladder at a certain fullness can also help ensure the radiation goes exactly where it's needed while protecting other organs. By trying out these different approaches, we hope to find the best way to give radiotherapy, making it safer and more effective for men with prostate cancer.
Key takeaways
- This study is comparing two ways of giving radiotherapy for prostate cancer.
- It also looks at different advice for preparing your bladder before treatment.
- The goal is to find out which methods lead to fewer side effects and better results.
- It's for men with prostate cancer that hasn't spread.
- Participation involves regular radiotherapy sessions and follow-up appointments.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a confirmed diagnosis of prostate cancer that has not spread to other parts of your body. Your doctor would have classified your cancer as 'intermediate' or 'high-risk' based on certain factors like the size of the tumour or your PSA levels.
You also need to be able to follow instructions for bladder filling and be mainly in control of your bladder, meaning you don't have severe leakage. Your general health should be good enough to attend regular appointments and complete questionnaires. There are a few things that would mean you can't join, such as having certain other health conditions like severe inflammatory bowel disease, having had radiotherapy to your pelvis before, or if you have an internal urinary tube (catheter). Also, if you've already had surgery like a prostate removal, this study wouldn't be right for you.
Essentially, we're looking for men with specific types of localised prostate cancer who are well enough to participate in a study that involves regular visits and careful monitoring. Your doctor will carefully check all these requirements with you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or over?
- Have you been diagnosed with prostate cancer that doctors say is 'intermediate' or 'high-risk' and hasn't spread?
- Are you generally able to control your bladder (not severe leakage)?
- Have you not had radiotherapy to your pelvis before?
- Are you able to lie still for about 30 minutes for treatment?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll receive radiotherapy to your prostate and possibly nearby lymph nodes over about four weeks, usually 20 visits. You'll be assigned to either standard radiotherapy or daily adjusted radiotherapy, and also receive specific instructions on how to prepare your bladder before each session. You'll need to complete questionnaires about your quality of life and side effects at specific times. You'll also have follow-up appointments and blood tests for a while after your treatment finishes to see how you're doing. The specific timing of some of your treatment appointments might need to be flexible. The total duration of your participation, including follow-up, will be explained by your doctor.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- BC Cancer VancouverVerified postcodeVancouver, Canada
Common questions
What is 'adaptive radiotherapy'?
It's a type of radiotherapy where your treatment plan is slightly adjusted each day to fit any small changes in your body, aiming to be more precise.
What kind of prostate cancer is this study for?
It's for men with prostate cancer that is 'intermediate' or 'high-risk' and has not spread outside the prostate area.
Will I have to pay to be in the study?
No, all treatment and tests related to the study are usually provided free of charge by the NHS.
What does 'bladder filling instructions' mean?
These are specific directions on how much water to drink and when, to make sure your bladder is at the right fullness during your radiotherapy session.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can choose to leave the study at any time, and your regular medical care will not be affected.
How to find out more
Sandy Chang
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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