Treating cancer is critical and there are many therapies and treatments available for the purpose. One such method is Proton Therapy. It is a kind of radiation therapy and used to treat cancer, particularly brain and spine tumor, pediatric cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer and various sarcomas. In proton therapy, high energy – positively charged particles (protons) are used to treat cancer and some noncancerous tumors.
How proton therapy works:
First of all, protons are produced from hydrogen atoms and accelerated using synchrotron or cyclotron.
Proton beam so formed is then guided using a large 360 degrees-rotating gantry, focusing high-speed protons to the site of tumor from multiple angles.
Energy within the proton beam is adjusted according to depth or exact site of tumor and ultimately, protons reach their exact stopping point (Bragg peak) where they release their energy and kill the tumor cells’ DNA (genetic material), afterwards cease to release any extra energy.
Benefits:
Precision targeting with higher dose of radiation to the tumor.
Less radiation-spread to the healthy cells in the vicinity of targeted tumour cells.
Risk is quite reduced in case of children having cancer and might suffer from long-lasting post-cancer treatment effects.
Common side-effects:
Hair loss near the body part being treated
Fatigue
Skin redness of the treated body part
In India, proton therapy facility is available in Delhi, Mumbai (ACTREC), Chennai (Apollo Proton Cancer Centre) and Bangalore. However, its cost is high if seen from general public’s perspective but still quite less than in Western countries. Widespread availability of proton therapy and other such therapies or treatments should be fostered in view of treating the public with advanced technologies causing more benefit and less harm.
How do you think proton therapy is revolutionizing cancer treatment, especially in context to children having cancer?
Absolutely, I agree ; proton therapy is truly revolutionizing cancer treatment, especially for children, by providing precision targeting that minimizes damage to healthy tissue and reduces long-term side effects. Another interesting fact is that studies have shown proton therapy can lower the risk of secondary cancers later in life compared to conventional X-ray radiation, which is particularly important for pediatric patients who have many decades ahead of them.
Proton therapy is truly reshaping modern cancer care, especially for children, by offering precision with compassion. Unlike conventional radiation, protons deposit maximum energy exactly at the tumor site and spare surrounding healthy tissue, something critically important in growing brains, bones, and organs. This means fewer long term side effects, better neurocognitive outcomes, and reduced risk of secondary cancers in pediatric patients. For tumors located near delicate structures like the optic nerve, brainstem, or spinal cord, proton therapy can be life changing. As India expands access to this technology, it represents a major leap forward toward safer, more targeted, and future focused cancer treatment.
Proton therapy is a beneficial and targeted therapy with the capability of reducing the post-treatment effects. This therapy should be made more affordable and accessible by increasing the availability of all the necessary high-end equipment and trained personnel in the country. Training the professional to handle would surely be challenging and needs extra care and responsibility.
