Scientists at Queen's University in Belfast have developed a new treatment for prostate cancer, which it is hoped will help prolong the lives of those suffering from the disease.
The research team that achieved the breakthrough is being led by a consultant from Co Wexford.
Prostate cancer is the most common form of the disease among men in Ireland and claims hundreds of lives every year.
The new treatment combines traditional chemotherapy with doses of a radioactive chemical, Rhenium, which can target areas of bone affected by cancer.
Dr Joe O'Sullivan from Gorey - who is leading the research - said it had proven to be a safe and feasible method of improving the chances of survival for prostate cancer patients.
Despite its promising results however, further intensive trials will be carried out on 100 patients in Northern Ireland and the Netherlands before the treatment becomes routine practice.
