Paediatric cancers often require radiotherapy as part of a multi-modality treatment approach. These patients achieve excellent long-term survival rates, exceeding 80% after initial cancer treatment. However, late effects, including cardiac, endocrine, and pulmonary complications, as well as secondary malignancies, are not uncommon. For central nervous system (CNS) tumours, radiotherapy inevitably results in varying degrees of neuro-cognitive impairment, which can significantly impact the quality of life in growing children.
Advancements in radiotherapy techniques, particularly Proton Beam Therapy (PBT), now enable the delivery of more precise radiation to tumour targets while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissues. In the past, families often had to travel overseas to access PBT for their children, facing significant challenges such as safety concerns for acute oncology conditions, limitations on concurrent chemotherapy, reduced access to comprehensive oncological care, and immense financial and psychosocial stress.
The introduction of local PBT services in 2023 has transformed care for children with newly diagnosed cancers, allowing them to access advanced radiotherapy closer to home. This development reduces the burden on families while ensuring comprehensive oncological support. However, the implementation of this service comes with funding and logistical challenges, particularly within the context of a public-private partnership program.
This session will explore the clinical, economic, and logistical benefits of local PBT, along with strategies to address the challenges of equitable access and sustainable program implementation.
