Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting those affected, and advocating for research and treatment advancements. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and in the U.S., about 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer over the course of their lifetime.
As we shine a light on breast cancer, it’s essential to explore treatment options that are offering new hope to patients. One such innovative option is proton therapy, a precise and advanced form of radiation treatment that is showing significant promise for breast cancer patients.
What is Proton Therapy?
Proton therapy is a type of radiation therapy that uses protons—positively charged particles—rather than traditional X-rays to treat cancer. What sets proton therapy apart is its precision. Unlike conventional radiation, which can affect both cancerous and surrounding healthy tissues, proton therapy delivers targeted radiation that stops at the tumor site. This means that healthy tissues and organs near the cancerous area receive less exposure to radiation, reducing side effects and long-term damage.
For breast cancer patients, especially those with tumors located near vital organs like the heart and lungs, this precise treatment can make a significant difference in their quality of life during and after treatment.
The Benefits of Proton Therapy for Breast Cancer Patients
While proton therapy offers numerous advantages, it may not be suitable for every breast cancer case. However, it can be a game-changer for specific groups of patients. Women with left-sided breast cancer, for example, can benefit greatly from the precision of proton therapy, as it reduces the risk of radiation-induced heart disease due to the proximity of the tumor to the heart.
Patients with genetic predispositions, such as a family history or genetic mutations that heighten the risk of complications, may also see improved outcomes with proton therapy’s targeted approach, which limits radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.
For those with recurring breast cancer, especially if they have previously undergone radiation, proton therapy provides an alternative treatment option that spares vital organs from further damage.
Additionally, younger patients benefit from the reduced risk of long-term side effects, making proton therapy a valuable option for minimizing the impact on healthy tissues over time.
Pioneers in Proton Therapy for Breast Cancer
Oklahoma Proton Center opened its doors in July 2009 as just the 6th proton therapy treatment center in the United States. The center has successfully treated over 5000 patients from all over the United States and fifteen countries.
As one of the first centers in the region to adopt this advanced technology, they have been at the forefront of reducing radiation exposure to critical areas like the heart and lungs, particularly for patients with breast cancer.
Why Keri Chose Proton Therapy
Survivor Keri Crutchfield began her breast cancer journey in July 2019. When weighing all of her treatment options, she decided proton therapy was the best chance she had at minimizing damage to her lungs.
Having suffered from asthma for most of her life, she was hesitant to risk the additional radiation exposure to her lungs if she received traditional photon radiation. Keri remarked:
“When I walked into the Proton Center for the very first time, I felt a peace. There was just, a peace about it. Everyone was so friendly and so kind and had a big smile. All the fear that I had before was gone.”
Read more about Keri’s battle with breast cancer HERE.
How You Can Get Involved This Breast Cancer Awareness Month
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s important to not only raise awareness about breast cancer but also to advocate for innovative treatments like proton therapy that can improve patient outcomes. Here are a few ways you can get involved:
Raise Awareness: Share information about the benefits of proton therapy with your community to help others understand their treatment options.
Encourage Early Detection: Early detection is key to successful treatment. Remind your friends and family to schedule their mammograms and to be aware of the symptoms of breast cancer.
As we continue to raise awareness about breast cancer, it’s essential to spotlight treatments that are changing the landscape of care. Proton therapy offers new hope for breast cancer patients, providing a treatment that is not only effective but also gentler on the body. With fewer side effects, more targeted precision, and ongoing research into its benefits, proton therapy is paving the way for a future where breast cancer patients can thrive during and after treatment.
For more information about Oklahoma Proton Center please call (405) 773-6700 or submit a web inquiry HERE.