Study summary

Protons did not reduce feeding-tube dependence or improve quality of life at a year

TORPEdO trial (UK) · 205 people, phase 3 · Published March 2026, The Lancet

What was tested

Proton therapy against standard photon radiation for oropharyngeal cancer in the UK, focusing on side effects and quality of life.

What they found

• Feeding-tube dependence at 12 months was 2% in both groups.
• Quality-of-life scores were similar (78.3 vs 77.1).

What it means

Together with the US trial, suggests protons are as effective but not clearly gentler for most patients.