HMC highlights future of proton therapy in cancer treatment

The Middle East Proton Therapy Summit emphasised the importance of proton therapy in cancer treatment and exploring the future directions of cancer care in the Middle East.Held for the first time in the State of Qatar, the summit was organised by Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) in collaboration with the Penn Medicine Department of Radiation Oncology at University of Pennsylvania in the United States of America. The event brought together global experts in proton therapy from the United States and Qatar.The Summit and its focus on Proton Therapy are part of HMC and the healthcare sectors efforts to provide world-class healthcare services to Qatars population, with the latest, most advanced treatment techniques.Proton therapy is a highly precise cancer treatment that can precisely target tumors while sparing normal tissue and vital organs. Being distinguished from conventional (photon) radiation, proton therapy offers superior precision, minimizing the impact on surrounding healthy tissues and vital organs. This unique precision contributes to the reduction of both immediate and delayed side effects, including the potential risk of radiation-induced secondary cancers.The therapeutic advantages of proton therapy are particularly noteworthy when addressing cancer in pediatric and young adult patients, emphasizing its potential impact on improving outcomes and minimizing long-term risks in this specific population.The one-day summit featured scientific sessions, panel discussions, patient stories, and discussions on the clinical rationale, physics, and administrative aspects of proton therapy.Chairman of the Organizing Committee, CEO and Medical Director of NCCCR and Chairman of Corporate Cancer Services Dr. Mohamed Salem Al Hassan said this collaborative effort represents a significant leap forward in our commitment to advancing cancer care, adding that the exploration of proton therapy, with its precision and sparing of healthy tissues, not only reflects dedication to cutting-edge treatments but also underscores the importance of global partnerships in shaping the future of healthcare outcomes for the Qatari community.