Omission of radiation therapy after breast-conserving surgery for biologically favourable tumours in younger patients: The wrong answer to the right question

Abstract

In this perspective paper, the findings of the recently published LUMINA study are critically evaluated, with an emphasis on the need for careful interpretation and a thoughtful approach in clinical practice. The LUMINA trial, which investigates the role of adjuvant endocrine therapy in low-risk breast cancer patients, is assessed for its limitations, including a highly selective patient cohort and an insufficient follow-up period. The importance of long-term data and further trials to inform clinical decisions effectively is emphasized. While the LUMINA study does not support an immediate change in practice, it is seen as a foundation for generating hypotheses to guide ongoing clinical trials. This important study has served as inspiration to develop this perspective paper, which takes into account ongoing studies and the toxicity profile of postoperative treatments in low-risk recurrence breast cancer. The need for a patient-cantered approach is stressed, considering individual wishes and desires in decision-making, despite the complexity of articulating these aspects in guidelines. A wise interpretation of available findings is essential to ensure sound clinical decision-making before broadly applying omission of radiation therapy.