Using shorter radiation treatments for breast and prostate cancer
Official title: Leveraging implementation science to accelerate adoption of shorter-course radiation for breast and prostate cancer
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10991299 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to make cancer treatment better by encouraging doctors to use shorter radiation sessions for breast and prostate cancer, so patients can spend less time in treatment while still getting the care they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $263,033 |
| NIH project number | 5K08CA252640-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991299 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer who are undergoing radiation therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not receiving radiation therapy or those with advanced cancer stages may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to improve cancer care by promoting the use of shorter radiation treatment courses, known as hypofractionation, for patients with breast and prostate cancer. The approach focuses on understanding how radiation oncologists influence treatment decisions and identifying successful strategies to encourage the adoption of these shorter courses. By studying high-performing oncologists and testing new implementation strategies, the research seeks to enhance patient outcomes and reduce treatment costs. Patients may experience less time in treatment while still receiving effective cancer care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more efficient radiation treatment options that improve patient quality of life and reduce healthcare costs.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that shorter radiation courses can be effective, but this specific implementation approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gillespie, Erin Faye — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Gillespie, Erin Faye
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.