- Present status and actual results
Present status and actual results of heavy ion radiotherapy
Establishing a highly safe irradiation method with high therapeutic value
Japan is the world's top country in terms of treatment results and the number of facilities
Heavy ion radiotherapy is a minimally invasive therapy that preserves the body's functions while improving QOL and supporting social rehabilitation. At present, although other countries are advancing plans to construct heavy ion radiotherapy systems, Japan is the only country with seven domestic facilities offering heavy ion radiotherapy. In the field of heavy ion radiotherapy, Japan is the world leader, and has the most facilities and experience in the world.
R&D status in various countries
With excellent local control, there is hope for an increase in the survival rate
In Japan, over 43,000 cancer patients have already been treated by heavy ion radiotherapy (as of end of 2023). Clinical research has been conducted on patients with intractable cancer unsuitable for surgery. The local control rate was high for all the indicated cancers, and it has been found that a survival rate exceeding that of conventional radiotherapy can be anticipated.
Actual results of heavy ion radiotherapy
Aiming to complete a sophisticated cancer therapy system in each region
Gunma University has begun treatment at the first heavy ion beam irradiation system for worldwide use, which has a much smaller installation area and much lower construction cost than those of previous systems. It is hoped that this system will become a model for the construction of a sophisticated cancer therapy system incorporating heavy ion radiotherapy in each region.
Furthermore, the introduction of respiratory-gated 3D scanning technology, which is expected to serve as a next-generation irradiation system, and small gantry using superconducting magnets have also begun, and it is expected that heavy ion radiotherapy will continue to develop into an even more effective and safer cancer treatment.
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