OBJECTIVES:
* Compare the efficacy of neutron and photon radiotherapy vs hypofractionated intensity modulated radiation, in terms of a lower frequency of chronic complication rate (chronic toxicity and disease-free survival), in patients with favorable to intermediate prognosis, stage I-III adenocarcinoma of the prostate.
OUTLINE: This is a randomized, multicenter study. Patients are stratified according to stage of disease (T1 vs T2 vs T3). Patients are randomized to 1 of 2 treatment arms.
* Arm I: Patients undergo neutron radiotherapy over 15-45 minutes 5 days a week for 2 weeks followed by photon radiotherapy over 15-45 minutes 5 days a week for 5 weeks.
* Arm II: Patients undergo photon radiotherapy over 15-45 minutes 5 days a week for 5 weeks followed by hypofractionated photon irradiation over 15-45 minutes 5 days a week for 2 weeks.
After completion of study treatment, patients are followed periodically for 5 years and then yearly thereafter.
PROJECTED ACCRUAL: A total of 300 patients (150 per treatment arm) will be accrued for this study.
