A new hope for cancer treatment: Let's learn about Proton Therapy

When we say "cancer," we often get scared of the word " radiation " that comes with it, right? But with the advancement of technology, cancer treatment has improved a lot today. Today, we are talking about a modern method that can target only cancer cells much more precisely than traditional radiation treatment methods. This is called proton therapy, or Proton Therapy .

Simply put, what is proton therapy?

This is also a type of radiation therapy . However, the difference is that instead of using X-rays like in regular radiation therapy, protons, a special type of high-energy particle, are used.

Think of it this way. A typical radiation beam is like a water hose. It soaks everything from where it starts to where it ends. That means it can also cause some damage to healthy cells along the way to the cancer .

But the proton beam is much 'smarter' than that. It's like a missile that goes straight to the target and explodes. Radiation oncologists can control exactly how far the proton beam travels and where it stops. So the proton beam goes right to the tumor and releases its full energy there, killing the cancer cells. This is called an 'exit dose', meaning it passes through the tumor and does not damage healthy tissue nearby, which is almost impossible with this method.

What are the most common uses for this treatment?

Because it causes less damage to healthy tissue, this treatment method is especially important when cancer occurs in the body's most sensitive organs.

• Cancers of the brain or spinal cord: Because these are very sensitive organs, there is a high risk of damage to surrounding tissue with traditional radiation therapy. However, proton therapy can reduce that risk.
• Childhood cancers:Because children's bodies are still developing, it is important to minimize the potential side effects of radiation exposure in the future. Therefore, proton therapy is considered a very suitable option for pediatric cancers.
• It is also commonly used for cancers in areas such as the eye, head, and neck.

Preparing for treatment and how the treatment takes place

Before starting this treatment, everything needs to be planned out carefully. It's like drawing a map before going into battle.

Treatment planning

First, you will be referred to a treatment planning session. There, your medical team will:

1. Positioning you in the right position: This is where you will be positioned during the treatment. You will need to remain still throughout the treatment. This can be helped by using immobilizing devices that are specifically designed for the area of ​​your body where the cancer is located. For example, if you are being treated for cancer in the head, you may be fitted with a mask that fits your face.

2. Imaging scans: Next, you will be placed in the same position and have a CT scan . This creates a three-dimensional (3D) map of the exact size, shape, and location of the tumor. You may also be given a few very small marks on your skin or the device. This will help you stay in the same position for each treatment.

The opportunity to provide treatment

After planning, treatment begins.

• You will be taken to a special room designated for that purpose and positioned as previously planned.
• The medical team operates the machine from a separate control room. But they can always see and hear you through a video screen. So there's nothing to worry about.
• Before starting treatment, we will take a few more pictures to make sure everything is in order.
• Then, a large mechanical arm called a gantry rotates around you, directing the proton beam at the best angles, as planned, to the cancer.

Although this entire preparation process may take about 20-30 minutes, the actual proton beam delivery time is only a few minutes. You may need to receive this treatment, usually five days a week, for several weeks. The schedule will be determined by your doctor based on your condition.

What are the benefits and risks of proton therapy?

Like any treatment, there are both benefits and risks. Let's take a look at them.

After treatment

After the treatment session is over, the medical team will come and help you get rid of the devices. You can go home the same day. Most importantly, no radiation will be emitted from your body. So you can be around anyone, including family members and small children, without any fear.

It may take several weeks to fully recover from all treatments. During that time, if you experience any discomfort or side effects that are more severe than expected, inform your doctor immediately.