The founder and lead surgeon of the Las Colinas Cancer Center talks about this relatively new treatment.

Irving, TX – As more treatment centers across America make proton beam therapy available for cancer patients, some are wondering why this “newfangled” alternative to conventional radiation is being recommended in their cases. This form of treatment, although fairly new in the grand scheme of things, offers some benefits conventional treatment might not.

Proton beam therapy’s use is on the rise in regard to the treatment of several different cancers. It is especially favored when tumors present in delicate, easy-to-damage areas, such as the prostate. Proton therapy involves the use of proton beams instead of the photon beams used in conventional radiation. While both beams effectively irradiate cancer cells, killing them off, proton therapy is known to be much more precise.

“Radiation in general is recommended as a form of treatment in many cases because of its ability to quite often be highly effective at killing off cancer cells and preventing their spread,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at the Las Colinas Cancer Center. “Conventional radiation therapy, however, is known for also damaging healthy nearby tissues as it does its work to eradicate cancer. This can give rise to a number of undesirable side effects. Proton therapy has been shown in some cases to limit damage to nearby, healthy tissue.”

Proton beam therapy’s adoption across America has been rather slow in coming. This is partially due to the size of the machines involved and the associated costs. As the technology advances, it is being more readily embraced by oncologists and their patients and it is becoming more available.

“Proton therapy has stood up very well in a number of studies meant to gauge its effectiveness in treating cancer while minimizing side effect risks,” says Dr. Echt. “Its use is growing in the treatment of a variety of cancers, prostate included.”

People who are diagnosed with cancer should speak directly with their doctors about all treatment options, their benefits and risks. Proton beam therapy may be recommended in some cases, but may not be available or advised in others.

About Las Colinas Cancer Center
Las Colinas Cancer Center, a Choice Cancer Care Treatment Center, is committed to providing the personalized, compassionate treatment that can make all the difference in cancer care. Our state-of-the-art facility, located in North Texas, offers those battling cancer and blood disorders a safe haven where they can find professional care from some of the nation’s most experienced oncology specialists in a supportive, caring environment with an integrated approach to treatment.