Men with low or intermediate-risk prostate cancer in South Devon can now access a shorter form of precision radiotherapy at Torbay Hospital.
The treatment, known as stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), is designed to target tumours more precisely than standard radiotherapy and help reduce side-effects. NHS England announced its national rollout in June 2026.
Stephen Dwyer-Lapthorne became the first man in Torbay and South Devon to receive SABR after being diagnosed with localised prostate cancer in October 2025. His treatment is planned over five sessions, rather than the 20 doses commonly used in standard radiotherapy.
That means eligible patients can complete treatment over two weeks instead of around four, while also being treated closer to home. Dwyer-Lapthorne said he had wanted a shorter course and had experienced only slight fatigue during his treatment so far.
Why it matters for Britain
About 55,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer in the UK each year, with around 17,500 classed as low or intermediate risk. Bringing SABR to Torbay could reduce long journeys for patients in the area and help them get through treatment more quickly.
