Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy prostate cancer cells while limiting damage to nearby healthy tissue. It can be used with the aim of curing prostate cancer, controlling cancer that has spread, or relieving symptoms.
The type of radiotherapy that may be suitable depends on the stage and risk group of the cancer, treatments you have already had, your general health and your preferences.
Read NHS information about prostate cancer treatment.
External beam radiotherapy
External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) directs radiation at the prostate from a machine outside the body. Modern techniques are carefully planned to target the cancer while reducing the dose received by surrounding organs such as the bladder and rectum.
Radiotherapy is normally delivered over a number of treatment sessions. The exact number and schedule depend on the type of radiotherapy and your individual treatment plan.
SABR radiotherapy
Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), sometimes called stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), delivers highly focused radiation in fewer, higher-dose treatments. In England, SABR is now available as an NHS treatment option for eligible adults with low- or intermediate-risk localised prostate cancer who meet the commissioning criteria.
It is not suitable for everyone, so your specialist team can explain whether it is an option for you.
Read NHS England information about SABR for localised prostate cancer.
Radiotherapy and hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is often given alongside radiotherapy for some intermediate- and higher-risk prostate cancers. Reducing testosterone can make radiotherapy more effective. Whether hormone therapy is recommended, and for how long, depends on your cancer and individual circumstances.
See our Hormone Therapy page for more information.
Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy is radiotherapy delivered from radioactive sources placed inside or close to the prostate. It is different from external beam radiotherapy and may be suitable for particular groups of people with localised prostate cancer. It can sometimes be combined with external beam radiotherapy.
See our Brachytherapy page for more information.
Radiotherapy after surgery
Radiotherapy can also be used after radical prostatectomy if PSA results or other findings suggest that prostate cancer remains or has returned. Your specialist team will discuss the timing and potential benefits and side effects if this applies to you.
See our Surgery page for more information.
Radiotherapy for advanced prostate cancer
Radiotherapy can be used in some people whose prostate cancer has spread. Depending on the circumstances, it may be directed at the prostate itself or at areas where cancer has spread, for example to help relieve bone pain or other symptoms.
Possible side effects
Side effects vary according to the area treated, the dose and type of radiotherapy, and the individual. Your radiotherapy team will explain the effects most relevant to your treatment.
Possible effects can include:
- tiredness
- needing to urinate more often or urgently
- discomfort or burning when urinating
- bowel changes such as looser or more frequent bowel movements
- rectal discomfort or bleeding
- erectile dysfunction, which can develop gradually after treatment
Some side effects improve after treatment finishes, while others can develop or continue longer term. Treatments and support are available for many of these problems.
If bowel, bladder, sexual or pelvic symptoms persist or appear months or years after pelvic radiotherapy, see our Pelvic Radiation Disease page for more information.
Read NHS information about radiotherapy side effects.
Questions to ask your specialist
- Why are you recommending radiotherapy for me?
- Which type of radiotherapy would I have?
- How many treatment sessions will I need?
- Will I need hormone therapy as well?
- What side effects are most likely in my situation?
- Are surgery, active surveillance or other treatments suitable alternatives for me?
This information provides a general introduction to radiotherapy for prostate cancer and does not replace advice from your oncologist or specialist cancer team.