Professor Andy Buffler, Department of Physics, University of Cape Town

COURSE FEES R110; Staff and students R55

Cancer is a global health challenge, and while advancements in treatment have been significant, there remains a glaring disparity in access to cutting-edge therapies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where over half of global cases and two-thirds of cancer-related deaths occur. Africa is projected to carry the greatest global burden of paediatric cancer within the next five years. This emerging health crisis requires immediate attention and a multifaceted approach.

A multidisciplinary team at the University of Cape Town is working towards the establishment of a proton therapy facility, which will be situated close to our major academic hospitals. Proton therapy, a form of radiation treatment, utilises a beam of energetic protons from a cyclotron. By using very advanced treatment planning and extremely precise beam delivery, it is possible to effectively ‘paint’ a radiation dose layer by layer in three dimensions over a cancerous tumour. In children in particular, proton beam therapy is now recognised as superior to conventional radiotherapy techniques since there is less damage to normal tissue and a reduced risk of secondary malignancy and late effects.

Of the 136 proton therapy centres operating globally, all are in the northern hemisphere, with only two under construction in the southern hemisphere – in Argentina and Australia.

This lecture will introduce the science and technologies of proton beam therapy, provide an update on the UCT Proton Therapy Initiative and discuss the impact that the centre will have for health care in the region.

Recommended reading

https://protontherapy.uct.ac.za