SHANGHAI, 28th March, 2024 (WAM) -- Shanghai Ruijin Hospital in China has achieved a significant milestone by successfully treating over 100 patients using the country's first domestically-developed proton radiation therapy system, SAPTPS-01.
This advanced treatment method, which targets tumours with precision, minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissues, has shown promising results, including smooth procedures and no severe toxicity in patients, including three minors.
According to China Daily, the first patient to receive this state-of-the-art treatment was treated in late November. Since then, the hospital has seen a number of successful treatments.
The 100th patient to reach this milestone was a 70-year-old from Shanghai named Chen. Chen received her first 40-minute session of proton therapy on Tuesday. She had previously undergone surgery in July 2022 for chordoma, a rare type of cancer that affects the bones of the skull and spine. After experiencing a recurrence of her condition, Chen turned to this innovative therapy with optimism.
Vice-President of Ruijin Hospital Zhao Ren highlighted the system's decade-long development by local medical research teams, emphasising its precision, affordability, and accessibility. "The SAPTPS-01 system represents a significant step forward in making cutting-edge radiotherapy technology available right here in China," Zhao said.
Proton therapy is globally acknowledged as one of the most sophisticated and effective methods for treating cancer. The hospital reported that the 100 treated tumours spanned more than 20 types, including head and neck, breast, and thoracic cancers.
Chen Jiayi, Director of the Radiotherapy Department at Ruijin Hospital, explained the particular benefits of proton therapy for complex cases. "For tumours located near critical organs, like those in the head and neck, proton therapy offers a valuable treatment option that can effectively balance therapeutic intensity with the need to minimise potential toxicity," said Chen.
Proton therapy is even more significant for pediatric cases, as it offers enhanced protection for developing tissues. After completing her five-week proton therapy course, a 14-year-old girl with a pituitary germ cell tumour experienced significant health improvements, including a growth spurt.
Looking ahead, China is on track to authorise 45 hospitals to provide proton radiation treatment by next year, a move that will significantly expand the country's access to this advanced cancer treatment.
This expansion underlines China's commitment to advancing its medical capabilities and providing its citizens access to some of the most progressive treatments available globally.