As we celebrate World Cancer Day, one notable development to improve access to advanced radiation treatment has been the continued growth of proton therapy facilities across multiple regions of the world.
More than 60 new particle therapy centers are being established in countries like China, India, Korea, Italy, Spain, Taiwan and others, increasing geographic access to advanced cancer treatment across the world. In the U.S. alone, there are already 47 operating centers, with 14 additional sites (either new or expansions of current sites) in development. One of which is the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, which will add the first carbon ion facility in the western hemisphere.
The expansion of clinical capacity also supports broader research and clinical collaboration. Many new centers incorporate research and training capabilities, contributing to the development of clinical evidence, workforce expertise, and treatment standardization across institutions.
Limited geographic availability has historically restricted use of proton therapy, often requiring long-distance travel and additional financial and logistical burdens. The development of new centers reduces these barriers by bringing treatment closer to patients, supporting timely care, and enabling proton therapy to be integrated into regional and national cancer care pathways.
Broader access also allows more patients to be considered for proton therapy based on clinical need rather than location. It’s important to note that in many low- and middle-income countries, access to radiotherapy of any kind remains limited, underscoring persistent global disparities in cancer care.
On World Cancer Day, the continued opening of proton therapy centers reflects ongoing efforts to improve access to advanced cancer treatment and to support more equitable care worldwide.
