First prostate cancer patient in Torbay receives pioneering therapy

Published: 21 September 2026

Men in Torbay and South Devon who have been diagnosed with early-stage localised prostate cancer will receive a new ground-breaking treatment to help manage their condition.

Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) delivers targeted, higher dose radiotherapy directly to the tumour to help reduce the risk of cancer spreading or returning. It is typically delivered in five doses, known as fractions, during a two-week period, compared to 20 doses using standard (external beam) radiotherapy.

Stephen Dwyer-Lapthorne is the first man in Torbay and South Devon to receive the new treatment, following a diagnosis of localised prostate cancer in October 2025.

Stephen said: “I was so pleased to be offered SABR at Torbay Hospital. I only have one session (fraction) left of the planned five sessions, and right now, I don’t feel anything, other than slightly fatigued, although I’m expecting potential side effects later. I’m meeting with the review radiographer once my treatment has finished for another PSA test before my six week follow up appointment.”

NHS England approved the use of SABR across the country in June to help treat the 55,000 men in the UK who are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year.

Naomi Hopkins, Head of Radiotherapy at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust said: “This national rollout is fantastic news for patients giving Stephen and thousands of other men with a low or intermediate risk of prostate cancer access to SABR. We are delighted that we are delivering prostate SABR locally, helping patients receive their treatment closer to home without needing to travel far.”