Radiation oncology
Lead Researcher:
Associate Professor Peter GrahamMost Important Aspects of Work in Past 10 yrs
We demonstrated that a skin care product could reduce the degree of skin reaction side effects of radiation treatment. Our institutional study has been followed by a national trial from which results are expected this year.We have shown that quality of life and cosmetic outcomes are not adversely affected by a particular technique that allows an increased radiation dose to the site of breast cancer surgery. An increased radiation dose to the site of breast cancer surgery has been shown to reduce the chance of cancer recurrence, especially in young women.
Current research
In breast cancer we are leading a national clinical trial testing the best way to combine a drug treatment with radiation to reduce the chance of breast cancer recurring in the areas treated by radiation.In melanoma we are testing the safety and effectiveness of a completely new form of targeted radiation treatment. This treatment has been completely developed at St George and represents cooperation between basic scientists (Professor Barry Allen’s group) and clinicians. This is exciting because there are really no effective systemic therapies for metastatic melanoma, or even effective adjuvant treatments that can reduce the chance of recurrence for patients with localised disease.
Recent publications
Graham P, Fourquet A. Placing the boost in breast conservation radiotherapy. A review of the role, indications and techniques for breast boost radiotherapy. Clinical Oncology 2006; 18: 210-219
Graham PH, Fang Z-M and Clarke RA. Pre-treatment with anastrozole maybe the optimal treatment sequence with radiotherapy for breast cancer. Asia Pacific J Clin Oncol. 2008;4:27-33
