BC Cancer Trial Reduces Radiation Sessions for Prostate Patients

A clinical trial at BC Cancer Victoria is achieving significant results in prostate cancer treatment by using artificial intelligence (AI) to reduce the number of necessary radiation sessions by over 90 percent. The trial, which began in July 2026, aims to improve patient outcomes while minimizing the time and stress associated with traditional radiation therapy.

Mike Miles, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in January 2025, expressed concern about the potential burden of frequent treatment appointments. He described the healthcare environment as strained, particularly for older patients. Initially classified at an intermediate risk of prostate cancer, Miles was advised that standard treatment would involve External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT). This method typically requires between 20 and 40 sessions, as the radiation machines often struggle to target cancerous cells precisely.

Innovative Approach to Radiation Therapy

Dr. Abe Alexander, a radiation oncologist at BC Cancer Victoria, explained that the new trial combines Stereotactic Radiotherapy with AI technology. This advanced approach allows for more accurate targeting of cancer cells while minimizing exposure to surrounding organs. As a result, patients like Miles can potentially complete their treatment in as few as five sessions, with some experiencing even fewer.

“What Stereotactic Radiotherapy does is it uses some of the technology we have in 2026 to aim the beams more accurately,” said Dr. Alexander. “Instead of having someone come in for 20 to 40 radiation treatments, our standard right now is that they can come in for five radiation treatments.”

The role of AI in this clinical trial is to continuously provide real-time measurements during treatment, allowing doctors to make immediate adjustments to the radiation machine. Dr. Alexander noted that this precision is expected to reduce side effects in the long term.

As one of the first patients to benefit from this trial, Miles reported a drastic improvement in his health after just two treatment sessions. His prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, which are crucial indicators of prostate health, dropped from 13 ng/ml to 1.3 ng/ml within a year and a half. The Canadian Cancer Society defines normal PSA levels as around 4 ng/ml, with higher levels indicating a greater risk for prostate cancer.

Improving Quality of Life for Patients

Dr. Alexander emphasized the negative impact that constant in-person treatment sessions can have on patients’ quality of life. The goal of the trial is to determine whether offering only two treatment sessions can effectively manage the disease while reducing the burden on patients. Participants in the trial are randomly assigned to receive either two or five sessions.

“So much of their time is spent coming into the cancer centre, making appointments, and that’s time they could be living life and doing other things,” Dr. Alexander remarked. “If there’s anything we can do to reduce that burden, I think it’s vital to do that.”

Currently, around 15 to 20 patients are enrolled in the trial, which will expand to residents on the Mainland this summer. The research team aims to include 100 patients and complete the trial within two years, providing hope for improved treatment options for prostate cancer patients.

This innovative approach not only highlights advancements in cancer treatment but also addresses the pressing need for more efficient healthcare solutions. As trials like this one progress, they may pave the way for more personalized and effective care in the future.