Cancer, a word that often brings a sense of fear and uncertainty, affects numerous lives around the world, including in Bangladesh. It can affect various parts of the body, posing significant challenges to both physical and emotional well-being.
According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report, Bangladesh has around 1.5 million cancer patients, with approximately 150,000 deaths each year. Every year, about 200,000 new cancer cases are reported.
Traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery have been the cornerstone of cancer care for many years. However, each of these methods comes with its own set of challenges and limitations.
Proton Beam Therapy is an advanced treatment option gaining attention among Bangladeshi patients due to its precision and reduced side effects. This article delves into why Proton Beam Therapy stands out as a preferred choice for cancer treatment.
A comparison table that highlights the key differences between Proton Beam Therapy and traditional cancer treatments:
Proton Beam Therapy represents a significant advancement in radiation therapy. Unlike traditional radiation therapy, which uses X-rays, Proton Beam Therapy uses protons. These positively charged particles have a unique physical property known as the Bragg peak. It minimizes collateral damage. The energy released by protons is concentrated within the tumor site, reducing the risk of unintended harm to adjacent structures. PBT's capability to spare healthy tissues makes it an optimal choice, offering better outcomes and a lower likelihood of side effects.
Proton Beam Therapy offers several benefits over traditional cancer treatments, particularly when it comes to precision, side effects, and treating complex cancers.
With its precision and reduced impact on healthy tissues, presents a game-changing alternative.The therapy accurately targets tumors, minimizing damage to adjacent healthy tissues and vital organs. This is especially beneficial in treating cancers near sensitive areas like the brain, spine, or eye.
Patients typically experience fewer side effects compared to those receiving traditional radiation therapy. This leads to an improved quality of life during and after treatment. This indicates that PBT is associated with a lower risk of severe side effects, which does not compromise the overall survival and disease-free survival rates compared to traditional treatments. Thus, PBT can be particularly beneficial for older patients or those with more comorbidities. PBT's focused energy delivery sets it apart by addressing these limitations.
Suitable for elderly patients due to lower risks. Provides a viable treatment option for older individuals.
Minimal impact on healthy cells facilitates a swift recovery. Patients can return to normal life sooner post-treatment.
Proton Beam Therapy is particularly effective in treating complex or hard-to-reach cancers, where traditional methods might be less effective or more damaging.
Proton Beam Therapy is not just a medical advancement; it's a lifeline for many Bangladeshi patients grappling with cancer. Through Bangla Health Connect's collaboration with Apollo Hospitals, this advanced treatment has become more accessible. Bangladeshi patients can now benefit from this cutting-edge therapy, which was once out of reach due to geographical and financial constraints.
Rahim's Story: A 45-year-old from Dhaka, Rahim underwent Proton Beam Therapy for prostate cancer. He shares, "The precision of the treatment and the minimal side effects have given me a new lease on life."
Ayesha's Journey: Diagnosed with a brain tumor, Ayesha, a 38-year-old mother of two, opted for Proton Beam Therapy. "The treatment was less taxing on my body, and I could spend quality time with my family, even during my treatment," she reflects.
Deciding to undergo Proton Beam Therapy involves several key considerations:
Proton Beam Therapy represents a significant step forward in cancer care for Bangladeshi patients. Its precision, reduced side effects, and effectiveness in treating complex cancers make it a promising option. Bangla Health Connect is committed to making this advanced treatment accessible to more patients. Those considering this therapy should explore the potential benefits and consult with healthcare professionals to make an informed decision.