GUEST CONTRIBUTOR:
Robert H. Press, MD
Radiation Oncologist
Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute
Conducting high-quality clinical trials is crucial for establishing the value proposition of proton therapy. One promising yet underappreciated benefit is its potential to reduce severe treatment-related side effects during or shortly after concurrent chemoradiotherapy. While combinatorial chemoradiotherapy is clinically effective, it increases the incidence and severity of side effects, leading to unintended hospitalizations, complications, and treatment disruptions. These adverse outcomes not only take a physical toll on patients but also lead to rapidly escalating healthcare costs.
A recent retrospective study published in JAMA Oncology by the University of Pennsylvania reported that for patients receiving combinatorial chemoradiotherapy, proton therapy was associated with a 70% reduction in the chance of severe side effects and a 50% reduction in the likelihood of functional deterioration compared to photon therapy. This study, among others, suggests that proton therapy could help patients navigate difficult but necessary combinatorial therapy more safely; however, prospective evidence is needed.
At the Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute, we are designing a multi-institutional randomized clinical trial to assess whether proton therapy can definitively minimize high-grade acute toxicity for patients undergoing curative chemoradiotherapy compared to photon chemoradiotherapy. This trial concept is under development and is planned for submission to the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) for funding. If proton therapy can keep more patients functional and out of the hospital, it may lower the total cost of care, thereby justifying more consistent support for proton therapy. Additionally, mitigating financial toxicity is crucial, as many cancer patients face higher costs due to treatment side effects and often cannot work during treatment.
This trial has the potential to expand proton therapy utilization, helping a broader range of patients while reinforcing the value of proton therapy in providing superior, patient-centered care. By advancing research and supporting innovations like proton therapy, we are committed to improving the quality of life for cancer patients and driving the future of cancer treatment forward.
EXPERTISE UNVEILED: A GUEST CONTRIBUTOR SERIES
We bring together the brightest minds and most experienced professionals in the field of proton therapy. In this distinguished guest contributor series, experts share invaluable insights, breakthrough research, and real-world experiences in advancing proton therapy. Join us as we delve into the world of proton therapy, exploring its intricacies and potential through the eyes of those who know it best. Interested in becoming a contributor? Email info@proton-therapy.org for more information.
