Study Comparing 5-Day vs. 9-Day Whole Breast Radiation with Boost for Early-Stage Breast Cancer

Inclusion Criteria

• Women aged 18 years or older.
• Women over 50 must have at least one risk factor, such as high-grade cancer, low estrogen receptor positivity, lymphovascular invasion, close surgical margins, or extensive intraductal component.
• Women 50 or younger do not need additional risk factors.
• Confirmed diagnosis of invasive breast cancer or Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS).
• Breast cancer stage T0-3, N0, M0, with whole breast radiation recommended by the doctor.
• Lumpectomy performed within 84 days before starting radiation.
• Good overall health with a performance status score of 2 or less.
• Negative surgical margins from lumpectomy, except for a small positive margin at the chest wall.
• Negative pregnancy test for women who can become pregnant, or proof of permanent sterilization or menopause.
• Women of childbearing potential must use effective birth control during and for 30 days after radiation.
• Willing to provide informed consent and follow study guidelines.

Exclusion Criteria

• Cancer in both breasts.
• Previous radiation therapy to the chest.
• Previous chemotherapy.
• Recurrent breast cancer.
• Cancer that has spread to other parts of the body or lymph nodes.
• Major chest surgery affecting study participation within 8 weeks before starting the study.
• Previous breast cancer in either breast.
• Any other cancer that may affect safety or participation in the study.
• Uncontrolled serious health conditions, such as heart failure, recent heart attack, or stroke.
• Significant complications after lumpectomy requiring additional surgery or hospital admission for antibiotics.
• Certain types of breast cancer, like neuroendocrine carcinoma or sarcoma.
• Conditions that make radiation therapy unsafe, like connective tissue disease.
• Medical or psychological conditions that affect understanding or following the study.
• Taking medications or therapies that increase sensitivity to radiation.