Lakeridge Health Physicians Co-Authors in Groundbreaking New Study

Lakeridge Health Radiation Oncologists, Dr. William Chu (Canadian Lead) and Dr. Audrey Li (Lakeridge Health lead) are among the contributors of a groundbreaking new study in the New England Journal of Medicine showing the effectiveness of Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) to treat prostate cancer – an innovative therapy that is not only more convenient for patients, but also more cost-effective for the health-care system.

The collaborative study reflects more than a decade of dedication from an international team of researchers and clinicians from Canada and Europe. Nine Canadian centres, including the R.S. McLaughlin Durham Regional Cancer Centre (DRCC), accrued the second highest number of patients for this landmark study, which showed that five SBRT sessions were as effective in biochemical control as the traditional 20 or 39 treatments. Together, they have established SBRT as the global standard of care for localized prostate cancer.

Dr. Chu emphasized the significance of these findings. “This study shows that SBRT is effective with significantly shorter treatment times without increasing prolonged side effects, fundamentally changing the patient experience,” he said.

By reducing the need for up to 39 hospital visits, patients save significantly on travel and parking costs. Additionally, SBRT enhances health-care system efficiency, allowing up to eight times more patients to receive treatment with the same resources, translating to reduced wait times and overall treatment costs.

Dr. Chu is quick to recognize the team effort behind this success. “The collaboration between dedicated researchers and clinicians has been essential in making this study a reality,” he explained. “Notably, Dr. Nick van As in the United Kingdom, Dr. Andrew Loblaw, Sunnybrook Genitourinary Site Lead, and Dr. Audrey Li, leading the DRCC’s participation, were instrumental in the study’s success. Their commitment and expertise have been invaluable.”

Having begun his career at Sunnybrook and the University of Toronto in 2009, Dr. Chu specializes in treating genitourinary and gastrointestinal cancers. His recent move to join the DRCC in 2023 reflects his passion for advancing cancer treatment through innovative technologies and focused radiotherapy. “I was drawn to the DRCC because of the opportunities to deliver highly precise treatments and work with an outstanding team,” he noted.

A key member of that outstanding team is Dr. Li, who has been a pivotal figure at the DRCC for the past 14 years. Dr. Li, who has been actively involved in the study’s success at the local level, added, “This publication is a significant milestone for us, and I am proud of how our team has contributed to advancing prostate cancer treatment.”

Dr. Li completed her residency training at McMaster University and a fellowship in gynaecologic and genitourinary cancers at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Li serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Queen’s University and as the DRCC’s Academic Coordinator for Radiation Oncology trainees. She is deeply committed to advancing prostate cancer treatment and hopes her ongoing involvement in clinical trials continues to contribute to breakthroughs in the future. “I hope this study will inspire further research and development, ultimately benefiting patients around the world, and especially our patients in the Central East Region,” shared Dr. Li.

“This publication marks a transformative moment in radiation oncology,” remarked Dr. Peter Dixon, Chief of Oncology and Medical Director, Durham Regional Oncology Program, Lakeridge Health. “Dr. Chu and Dr. Li’s work stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, compassion, and innovation in health care, ensuring that every patient has access to the most effective and cutting-edge treatment options available.”

For more information and to read the study, visit the New England Journal of Medicine.