Proton beam therapy

This information explains the difference between proton beam therapy and standard photon radiotherapy. It also explains the benefits of proton beam therapy (PBT) and who might be suitable for it.  

What is PBT?  

Proton beam therapy (PBT) is a form of radiotherapy. PBT uses high-energy proton beams instead of X-ray photon radiation beams.

The proton beams target the tumour precisely, meaning there’s less damage to healthy surrounding tissue and organs.

It’s used to treat some types of sarcoma, depending on the location of the tumour. Speak to your doctor if you have any questions about PBT. 

What’s the difference between PBT and radiotherapy?  

Standard photon radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation beams to destroy cancer cells. PBT uses proton beams to do the same thing. It’s important to know that both treatments are safe and effective.  

The main difference is that the treatment is more targeted with PBT, which is useful for some types of sarcomas. Proton beams use their energy on the tumour, which lowers the dose of radiation to surrounding tissue and organs. This helps to reduce long-term side effects.  

Not everyone with sarcoma will have radiotherapy, and only a small number of people will have PBT instead of standard photon radiotherapy.

Benefits of PBT

The main benefit of PBT is fewer long-term side effects. When PBT is used, the beams that deliver treatment stop just after hitting the tumour. This means that less radiation affects nearby healthy tissue or organs.  

Side effects from PBT 

The side effects of PBT depend on where the tumour is and the size of the tumour. 

Common side effects are:

• red or sore skin  
• hair loss in the treatment area  
• tiredness or low energy  
• a dry or sore mouth or throat, or difficulty swallowing (if treating the head and neck) 
• feeling sick (if treating the stomach area) 
• loose poo (diarrhoea).  

Accessing PBT  

If your doctor thinks PBT may help you, they will send a referral and your medical information to a secure proton portal. This information is then sent to the proton centre that treats people from your region. This will either be at:  

• University College London (UCH)
• The Christie in Manchester

Do I have to pay for PBT? 

In England and Scotland, the NHS will pay for your treatment and accommodation costs. You might need to check if you’re eligible for help with travel costs.

In Wales and Northern Ireland, your doctor will talk to your local health board about funding your treatment, travel, and accommodation costs.

What if I’m not eligible for PBT? 

Many people with sarcoma do not need PBT. For a lot of people with sarcoma, standard photon radiotherapy may work just as well. Current evidence suggests that PBT does not increase survival rates any more than standard photon radiotherapy.

Your medical team will talk to you about your treatment options and explain why you might not need PBT.  

If you are not eligible for PBT funded by the NHS, it might be possible to access PBT as a private patient. University College Hospital (UCH) can treat private patients. You would need to pay yourself or with health insurance. The clinical team would still need to assess if you are suitable for PBT and ensure there is a benefit for you.