What you need to know about accelerated breast radiation
What is accelerated breast radiation?
Traditional radiation therapy for early-stage breast cancer usually takes about five to seven weeks. Accelerated radiation, also called hypofractionated radiation or Canadian fractionation, gets the job done faster using stronger doses over a shorter time, typically around three weeks.
The total amount of radiation you receive stays about the same.
Some doctors may also offer a type of accelerated radiation where you lie down during treatment. This can help reduce the amount of radiation that reaches your skin and other important organs like your heart and lungs.
An approved treatment
Both the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) endorse accelerated breast radiation as an acceptable treatment for eligible patients.
Benefits to you or your loved one
We understand undergoing radiation treatment can feel overwhelming.
Accelerated breast radiation offers some advantages that might be a good fit for your situation. This approach delivers targeted radiation over a shorter duration, often lessening treatment time by half that of traditional radiation. This can mean less disruption to your daily routine and potentially lower costs. Additionally, with precise beams, exposure to healthy tissues is minimized.
Of course, the best course of treatment depends on your individual needs. We'll discuss all the options with you to ensure you feel comfortable and confident in your care plan.
Need to see a cancer specialist?
Our multi-disciplinary cancer specialists are ready to provide you the most comprehensive cancer care possible.