5 Things to Know About Proton Beam Therapy Singapore

Proton beam therapy (PBT) is a type of radiation therapy that uses protons, instead of X-rays, to treat cancer. It is a more precise form of radiation therapy that can reduce damage to healthy tissue and side effects.

PBT is available in Singapore at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) and the Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital. It is used to treat a variety of cancers, including:

• Brain cancer
• Head and neck cancer
• Lung cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Breast cancer
• Liver cancer

How does proton beam therapy work?

PBT works by delivering a beam of protons to the tumor. The protons deposit their energy in the tumor, damaging the cancer cells. The protons do not penetrate as deeply as X-rays, so they cause less damage to healthy tissue.

What are the benefits of proton beam therapy?

PBT offers a number of benefits over traditional X-ray radiation therapy, including:

• Reduced side effects: PBT causes less damage to healthy tissue, so patients experience fewer side effects, such as skin irritation, hair loss, and nausea.
• More precise: PBT is more precise than X-ray radiation therapy, so it can be used to treat tumors that are close to critical structures, such as the brain and spinal cord.
• Effective for certain cancers: PBT is particularly effective for treating certain types of cancer, such as brain cancer and head and neck cancer.

What are the risks of proton beam therapy?

PBT is a safe and effective treatment, but there are some risks associated with it, including:

• Radiation exposure: PBT involves exposure to radiation, which can increase the risk of developing cancer later in life.
• Side effects: PBT can cause side effects, such as skin irritation, hair loss, and nausea. However, these side effects are typically less severe than those caused by X-ray radiation therapy.

Who is a candidate for proton beam therapy?

PBT is not a suitable treatment for all patients with cancer. It is typically used for patients who have tumors that are close to critical structures, or who are at high risk of developing side effects from X-ray radiation therapy.

How do I find out if I am a candidate for proton beam therapy?

If you are interested in PBT, talk to your doctor. They can refer you to a specialist who can evaluate your case and determine if PBT is the right treatment for you.

What are the costs of proton beam therapy in Singapore?

The cost of PBT in Singapore varies depending on the type of cancer being treated, the stage of the cancer, and the number of treatments needed. The average cost of PBT in Singapore is between $50,000 and $100,000.

Is proton beam therapy covered by insurance in Singapore?

Most health insurance plans in Singapore cover PBT. However, it is important to check with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage.

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Proton Beam Therapy Singapore

1. What is the difference between proton beam therapy and X-ray radiation therapy?

PBT is a more precise form of radiation therapy that uses protons, instead of X-rays, to treat cancer. PBT causes less damage to healthy tissue and side effects.

2. Is proton beam therapy available in Singapore?

Yes, PBT is available in Singapore at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) and the Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital.

3. What types of cancer can be treated with proton beam therapy?

PBT can be used to treat a variety of cancers, including brain cancer, head and neck cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, and liver cancer.

4. How much does proton beam therapy cost in Singapore?

The cost of PBT in Singapore varies depending on the type of cancer being treated, the stage of the cancer, and the number of treatments needed. The average cost of PBT in Singapore is between $50,000 and $100,000.

5. Is proton beam therapy covered by insurance in Singapore?

Most health insurance plans in Singapore cover PBT. However, it is important to check with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage.