What Is Proton Therapy?
Proton therapy uses protons instead of X-rays, releasing energy at a specific depth (the Bragg peak) to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Why China?
5 active proton centers — most in Asia outside Japan. Full course: $30,800-53,200 vs $80,000-150,000 in the USA — 63% savings.
Best Indications
- Pediatric cancers (reduces lifetime secondary cancer risk)
- Brain tumors near optic nerves or brainstem
- Skull base tumors (chordoma, chondrosarcoma)
- Recurrent cancers in previously irradiated areas
