A new study published in the Journal of Health Economics and Outcomes Research suggests that using the PROSTOX ultra test—a microRNA-based assay—can help men with localized prostate cancer avoid costly side effects from radiation therapy while improving quality of life.
The PROSTOX ultra test identifies patients at higher risk of developing late genitourinary (GU) toxicity from stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). By using results from this clinically validated genetic test, doctors can make more personalized treatment decisions based on each patient’s risk profile.
“Physicians already see how PROSTOX ultra helps patients avoid late GU toxicity from SBRT. Our new findings show that the test also significantly reduces long-term health care costs,” said Dr. Melissa Stoppler, Executive Vice President of Medical Affairs at MiraDx. “This study further confirms the value of integrating PROSTOX ultra into treatment planning for localized prostate cancer.”
In the study, researchers compared patient outcomes and costs between pathways guided by PROSTOX ultra and those guided by the current standard of care (SOC). High- or low-risk results from the test influenced whether patients received SBRT, conventionally fractionated radiotherapy (CFRT), or prostatectomy, which in turn affected treatment costs and quality of life.
Using a decision tree model, the analysis found:
PROSTOX ultra group: 73.3% received SBRT, 9.5% CFRT, 17.3% prostatectomy
SOC group: 38.3% received SBRT, 12.4% CFRT, 49.4% prostatectomy
Over five years, the total estimated cost per patient was $47,683 for those using PROSTOX ultra versus $67,298 for SOC—a savings of $19,615 per patient. The study also noted that even if PROSTOX ultra were priced above $10,000, it still provided net cost savings.
Long-term results were similarly promising. Lifetime costs were estimated at $82,337 with PROSTOX ultra versus $107,114 under SOC, with the test adding 0.24 quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) per patient.
The study concluded that integrating PROSTOX ultra as a predictive tool for late GU toxicity in prostate cancer patients not only improves outcomes but is also cost-effective, saving tens of thousands of dollars per patient while enhancing quality of life.
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