Postop Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy and LHRH in Patients With Prostate Cancer
This study is investigating a new approach for men with prostate cancer that has a higher chance of returning after surgery. It combines a shorter, more convenient type of radiotherapy (hypofractionated radiation therapy) with hormone therapy (Eligard). The main goals are to check how safe this combined treatment is and if it helps prevent the cancer from coming back. This is a Phase 2 trial, meaning researchers are particularly focused on understanding side effects. The study will help determine if this treatment could be a good option for men who have undergone prostate cancer surgery and are at higher risk of recurrence.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is for men who have had surgery for prostate cancer, particularly those whose cancer had certain features that suggest it has a higher chance of coming back. Sometimes, even after surgery, tiny cancer cells can remain, leading to the cancer returning later on. This is why some men are offered further treatments like radiotherapy after their operation.
Traditionally, radiotherapy involves many treatment sessions. This study is exploring a newer, shorter course of radiotherapy called 'hypofractionated radiation therapy'. This means you'd have fewer, but slightly stronger, doses of radiation. The researchers want to see if this shorter treatment is just as effective and safe as the longer, traditional one. They are also combining this radiotherapy with hormone therapy called Eligard to see if this combination works better to stop the cancer from returning.
The main aim of this study is to carefully check the side effects of this new combined treatment approach. By understanding the side effects, doctors can determine if it's a suitable and safe option for patients. This research is important because finding better, more convenient treatments could improve outcomes and quality of life for men facing prostate cancer.
Key takeaways
- It's a study for men who've had prostate cancer surgery and are at higher risk of recurrence.
- It tests a shorter course of radiotherapy combined with hormone therapy (Eligard).
- The main goal is to find out more about the safety and side effects of this new approach.
- Participation involves receiving one hormone shot before radiotherapy and another during.
- It's a Phase 2 trial, focusing on how well patients tolerate the treatment.
Who may be eligible?
You might be able to join this study if you are a man aged 18 or over and have had surgery for prostate cancer. Specifically, your cancer must have had certain features that suggest it had a higher risk of coming back, such as cancer cells found at the edge of the removed tissue, or if the cancer had spread slightly beyond the prostate itself. Your lymph nodes should be clear of cancer.
It could also be for you if your PSA levels (a blood test marker for prostate cancer) started to rise again after your surgery, but there's no sign the cancer has spread to other parts of your body, like your bones. You must not have had certain other treatments like previous hormone therapy for prostate cancer or chemotherapy before or after your surgery. Also, you shouldn't have had radiotherapy to your pelvis before.
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 a man aged 18 or older?
- Have you had surgery for prostate cancer?
- Did your prostate cancer have features suggesting a higher chance of coming back (e.g., cancer at the edges, outside the prostate)?
- Have your PSA levels started rising after surgery, but the cancer hasn't spread elsewhere?
- Have you NOT had previous hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy to your pelvis for prostate cancer?
What does participation involve?
If you take part in this study, you would receive a shot of hormone therapy about 12 weeks before your radiotherapy begins. Then, you'll have a course of hypofractionated radiotherapy for four weeks. During these four weeks, you'll also receive another shot of hormone therapy. You will have regular check-ups and tests to monitor your health and the effects of the treatment. The total duration of your participation, including follow-up, will be explained by the study team.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- McGill University Health Centre- Cedars Cancer CentreVerified postcodeMontreal, Canada· Recruiting
- McGill University Health Centre-Cedars Cancer CentreVerified postcodeMontreal, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'hypofractionated radiation therapy'?
It's a type of radiotherapy where you have fewer, but slightly stronger, daily treatments over a shorter time, compared to traditional radiotherapy.
What is Eligard?
Eligard is a hormone therapy that helps lower the levels of male hormones, which can slow down or stop the growth of prostate cancer cells.
Why is this study looking at men with 'high-risk' prostate cancer?
High-risk means the cancer has features that make it more likely to come back after surgery. The study wants to find the best ways to prevent this in these specific patients.
Will I have to pay to be in the study?
No, you will not have to pay for the study treatments. All study-related care is provided free of charge.
What happens if the cancer comes back during the study?
The study team will discuss appropriate steps and further treatment options with you, as well as considering your continued participation in the study.
How to find out more
Fabio Cury, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.