Precision radiation boosts hope in rectal cancer battle

This study tests whether giving extra, precisely targeted radiation to the main tumor and affected lymph nodes before surgery can improve outcomes for people with locally advanced rectal cancer. About 128 adults with rectal cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes will receive either standard radiation or an adaptive boost version that adjusts the dose based on MRI or CT scans. The goal is to see if this approach leads to more tumors completely disappearing before surgery and makes the operation safer and easier.