Prostate cancer trials using focus therapy have fewer side effects

Almost all men had moderate or high-risk prostate cancer – but only two died of the disease 10 years after treatment.

These results are as good as surgery or radiotherapy, but less than half of the side effects such as urinary leakage or loss of sexual function.

Joint senior author Professor Hashim Ahmed, consultant urologist at Imperial College London and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, said the findings show that “focal therapy provides long-term cancer control in many patients”.

“It creates a compelling situation to provide this treatment to more centers,” he said.

Focal therapy was introduced 20 years ago but currently only around 1,000 men a year in the UK receive it – although up to 15,000 could benefit.

The therapy is not suitable for men whose cancer is in several parts of their prostate or has spread beyond the groin.