Radiotherapy is given after surgery for early breast cancer to reduce the chance of cancer coming back in the breast tissue in the future.

The surgery, whether it is a lumpectomy or mastectomy, will almost always take away all visible signs of the cancer. Radiotherapy is given because sometimes there may be microscopic, invisible, traces of cancer left behind and these could grow to form a recurrence of the cancer at a later date. Because these areas of cancer cells are so small there are no tests that can tell for certain whether or not they are there. So, when radiotherapy is offered it is as a safeguard in case there may still be some cancer cells left behind.

There have been a number of studies looking into the effect of delays in radiotherapy for breast cancer. A recent review of these found that waiting for up to 8 weeks for radiotherapy has no effect on the success of treatment. However waiting for 8 weeks or more, can increase the chances of breast cancer coming back in the breast tissue. This is known as local recurrence. Local recurrences can be treated and a cure is still possible if this happens. It is only when radiotherapy is delayed for 20 weeks or more that a reduction in the chances of breast cancer being cured has been found.

This means that although waiting for 12 weeks may increase the risk of cancer returning in the breast this should not affect your chances of cure.

Unfortunately, around the UK there is a national shortage of radiotherapy machines and the staff to operate them. This has resulted in waiting lists of some months in many areas. The NHS is investing money in radiotherapy services to improve things. However, because of the time it takes to install new equipment and train new staff it will be some years before the benefits of this investment are seen.

If you are very concerned about the length of time you are having to wait it may be helpful to discuss your concerns with your specialist. They may be able to reassure you or suggest alternatives. For example, if a delay could affect the outcome of treatment it is sometimes possible to be referred to another area where waiting times are less. Unfortunately, as radiotherapy treatment centres are spread throughout the country this can involve a lot of travelling and may not always be available or convenient for you.