Apollo Proton Cancer Centre trains international doctors for proton beam therapy

New Delhi: Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC), the first and largest Proton Therapy Centre in South Asia and the Middle East, is poised to revolutionize global healthcare. In collaboration with Belgium-based IBA, a global leader in proton therapy, APCC, in its series of training programs on PBT, recently completed imparting training to its first batch of eminent doctors from Indonesia and Vietnam.

Through this initiative, India becomes the first country in Southeast Asia to host a specialized proton beam therapy training program for international oncologists.

Being the first Indian cancer centre to launch the training program in PBT, it marks a new chapter in collaborative cancer treatment and solidifies its position as a front-runner in knowledge sharing and advancing global cancer care.  Similar training programs are in the pipeline for oncologists from Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Slovenia and Philippines.   

Proton Beam Therapy has emerged as a highly precise and effective radiation treatment for various cancers, offering targeted tumor treatment while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. So far, APCC has treated over 1400 patients, the youngest being a 10-month-old boy, and has achieved remarkable clinical outcomes, elevating the quality of life of cancer warriors.

Didier Vanderhasselt, Ambassador of Belgium to India, honored the event as its chief guest, and said, “From the historic beginnings of diplomatic relations between Belgium and India to the present day, where pioneering advancements in healthcare stand testament to our enduring collaboration. Belgium is proud to support initiatives that drive innovation and excellence in cancer care.”

In a powerful statement marking the occasion, Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Limited, emphasized the transformative impact of their collaboration with IBA. “This alliance is a testament to our dedication to forging global healthcare partnerships. By uniting our strengths and expertise, we significantly enhance our collective capacity to tackle cancer worldwide. The training program is a landmark event in our partnership, facilitating an unhindered exchange of knowledge across frontiers. It equips oncologists globally with cutting-edge insights into Proton Beam Therapy. This collaboration is a clear manifestation of our unified vision to democratize access to innovative treatments worldwide, heralding a new era in healthcare where advanced solutions are within reach for everyone.”

Dr. Nguyen Thi Minh Hue, Radiation Oncologist, Cho Ray Hospital, Vietnam, said, “Participating in the specialized training program at Apollo Proton Cancer Centre is an exceptional opportunity to enhance our skills and knowledge in Proton Beam Therapy.  We look forward to acquiring valuable skills and knowledge  during the training program which will enable us to better serve our patients and contribute to the development of cancer care in Vietnam.”

Dr. Febryono Basuki Raharjo, HOD- Radiation Oncology, Dharmais National Cancer Center, Indonesia, said, “Being part of the proton beam therapy training initiative at APCC, it is a game-changer for Indonesian oncologists. India stands as a beacon of world-class expertise in cancer care, and the Centre exemplifies this commitment to excellence. Through this training, we aim to bring the benefits of PBT to more patients in Indonesia and beyond, ultimately improving cancer care outcomes in our region.” 

The event was further graced by the below dignitaries Mr Dadang Hidayat, Minister Counsellor, Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia, New Delhi, Mr. Basir Ahmed, Deputy Chief of Mission, from the Indian Ambassador in Indonesia, and Mr. N Ashok Kumar, Adviser, (Industry & Engineering), Embassy of India to Belgium who joined virtually.

The training program at APCC is meticulously designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of oncologists from diverse backgrounds, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange to drive further innovation in cancer treatment. Through this initiative, APCC and IBA aim to empower doctors with the expertise necessary to deliver superior cancer care to patients across the region.