Where is proton therapy available

Buchsbaum agreed that proton therapy may be especially helpful for older and sicker patients, but he noted that ongoing phase 3 trials were not designed to analyze this group of patients. And because proton therapy may cause fewer side effects, future trials could also explore whether combining proton therapy with chemotherapy might be more tolerable for patients, the authors wrote.

For example, both chemotherapy and traditional radiation for lung cancer can irritate the esophagus, making it painful and difficult for patients to eat. But proton therapy might limit damage to the esophagus, making it easier for a patient to tolerate the combination, Dr. Baumann explained. Future studies could also explore whether combining proton therapy with higher doses of chemotherapy might increase cures without causing more side effects, he added.

Buchsbaum agreed, saying that it would be worthwhile to explore this possibility. Baumann and his colleagues are currently studying the cost effectiveness of proton therapy, considering aspects like the costs of treating side effects and the value of preserved quality of life.

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Researchers are studying the potential benefits of proton beam therapy on other kinds of cancers. Both regular and proton radiation therapy damage the DNA of cancer cells, but proton therapy has two main advantages: more energy focused on the tumor, and less radiation affecting healthy tissue nearby. With less healthy tissue affected by the radiation, side effects can be milder.

Damage to delicate structures such as the brain, heart, oral cavity, esophagus and spinal cord might be reduced. Proton therapy is not appropriate for every type of cancer. It is best suited for cancers in sensitive areas, where other treatments might damage surrounding healthy cells. The machines and equipment for proton therapy are very complex and expensive to make and operate. It is important to check with your insurance provider about coverage.

Some proton therapy centers have financial counselors to consult. Health Home Treatments, Tests and Therapies. Compared to other methods, it focuses more energy on the tumor itself with less radiation to surrounding healthy tissue. What You Need to Know Proton therapy is usually painless, and you can often return to your daily activities afterward.

What is proton therapy? How Proton Beam Therapy Works Proton therapy is an advanced form of radiation treatment that uses protons instead of X-rays. What is it like to get proton therapy? Getting Ready for Proton Therapy Proton therapy involves careful planning to make sure the proton beam hits its target. Positioning for Proton Beam Treatment Positioning the body is very important. What Happens During Proton Beam Treatment Once you are ready and in position, the therapists will leave the room so they can operate the proton beam machine.

You will not feel the proton beam as it enters the body or as it is treating the tumor. Proton Therapy Side Effects After your session, you might feel tired.

Side effects can develop gradually after treatment, and might include: Sore, reddened skin around the treatment area that can look and feel like a sunburn Hair loss in the treatment area Tiredness or low energy Additional side effects, depending on the area treated, can include headaches and problems with eating and digestion.

Recovery from Proton Therapy After being treated with the proton beam, most people can go home and resume their activities. Which tumors might be treated with proton therapy? MD Anderson patients have access to clinical trials offering promising new treatments that cannot be found anywhere else. My Chart. Donate Today. For Physicians. Cancer Moonshots. Learn More.

Find Our Location. See Contact Information. Let's get started or call us at Request an appointment online. Let's get started Request an appointment online. Jump To:. What is proton therapy? What is Proton Therapy? See full-size video. Conditions We Treat. Cancer of the unknown primary survivor: MD Anderson came up with the right treatment for me.

A decade later, survivor remains grateful for proton therapy.