A man from Bairnsdale, Victoria, is the first patient at Latrobe Regional Health (LRH) to receive a new form of radiation therapy as part of a clinical trial for recurrent localized prostate cancer. The treatment, known as stereotactic ablative body radiation therapy (SABR), offers a potential second chance for patients who have previously undergone radiation therapy and experienced a recurrence of the disease.
Gerrit van Rijswijk was initially diagnosed with prostate cancer in following a routine blood test. He subsequently completed eight weeks of radiation therapy at LRH, achieving initial control of the cancer. However, in , rising prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels indicated a recurrence. Further scans revealed that the cancer remained confined to the prostate, making him a candidate for the SABR clinical trial.
What is SABR and How Does it Work?
SABR is a highly focused form of radiation therapy that delivers a concentrated dose of radiation directly to the prostate cancer cells, while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. Unlike conventional radiation therapy, which is typically delivered in multiple, lower-dose fractions, SABR utilizes fewer, higher-dose sessions. In this trial, the treatment is administered in five weekly sessions.
According to Professor Wee Loon Ong, a radiation oncologist at The Alfred and involved in the trial, this approach is particularly beneficial for patients like Gerrit, where the cancer remains localized. “In Gerrit’s case, the cancer is still localised to the prostate, and this technology allows us to give more concentrated doses of radiation,” Prof Ong said. The goal is to eliminate the recurrent cancer with a targeted and effective treatment.
Expanding Access to Advanced Cancer Care in Regional Victoria
The availability of this clinical trial at LRH represents a significant step forward in providing advanced cancer care to residents of Gippsland, a regional area of Victoria. Previously, patients requiring this type of specialized treatment would have needed to travel to Melbourne, incurring substantial financial and logistical burdens. The Teletrial model, a partnership between The Alfred and LRH, allows patients to receive treatment closer to home.
Gerrit van Rijswijk emphasized the convenience and comfort of receiving treatment at LRH. “As we come from east Gippsland, it’s feasible to come to LRH as we don’t have to find accommodation and we can do the trip in one day,” he stated. “Everything can be done at LRH, and I feel more comfortable at a smaller hospital. I feel excited this trial is happening and I hope this will be beneficial to others.”
Professor Ong highlighted the importance of delivering specialist care in regional settings, noting that it alleviates the stressors faced by patients traveling long distances for treatment. “This includes the financial and physical cost of taking long periods of time away from work, family and caring responsibilities,” he explained.
A Growing Clinical Trials Program at LRH
The SABR trial for prostate cancer is the first of a series of similar trials planned at LRH. Dr. Therese Kang, a Radiation Oncologist at The Alfred and a Prostate SABR fellow at LRH, is co-leading the initiative. Further trials are scheduled to commence later in . Dr. Kang’s fellowship is partly funded by the Latrobe’s Biggest Ever Blokes BBQ charity, demonstrating the community support for expanding research opportunities in the region.
Jhodie Duncan, LRH’s research general manager, underscored the importance of collaborations with organizations like the Australian Teletrial Program, TrialHub, and the Radiation Therapy Network in bringing innovative trials to LRH. “Since launching our clinical trials program in , Latrobe Regional Health has been committed to expanding access to high-quality research opportunities for Gippsland residents, ensuring they can receive cutting-edge care closer to home,” Dr. Duncan said.
What Does This Mean for Patients with Recurrent Prostate Cancer?
For patients with recurrent prostate cancer confined to the prostate after prior radiation therapy, SABR represents a potentially valuable treatment option. Historically, these patients were often considered to have limited or no further treatment avenues. The trial aims to determine the effectiveness of SABR in eliminating the recurrent cancer and improving patient outcomes.
The trial will involve ongoing monitoring of Gerrit’s progress through regular blood tests and scans, as determined by the medical team. The results of this and future SABR trials at LRH will contribute to a growing body of evidence regarding the role of this advanced radiation therapy in the management of recurrent prostate cancer.
While this trial offers hope, it’s important to remember that This proves a research study. Not all patients will be eligible, and the long-term benefits of SABR are still being evaluated. Patients interested in learning more about clinical trials for prostate cancer should discuss their options with their healthcare provider.
