Prostate cancer proton beam therapy treatment
At Proton International London, the UK’s only private proton beam therapy service, we deliver precise, protective, and powerful treatment for prostate cancer.
Who we are
At Proton International London we deliver the most effective and precise treatment to our prostate cancer patients at our specialist proton beam therapy treatment centre at UCLH.
Learn moreAbout Proton Beam Therapy
An advanced form of radiation therapy with sub-millimetre accuracy on targeting tumors while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Learn moreMeet our prostate cancer specialists
Our treatment is provided by globally recognised consultant oncologists in the treatment of prostate cancer.
Learn moreHere to help you
Our friendly team are here to answer any questions you may have about our treatment for prostate cancer.
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If you’ve recently been informed you have prostate cancer, it’s natural to have questions about your treatment options. You may have heard of proton beam therapy, a highly targeted form of radiotherapy. Read on for advice on what it is, the benefits and whether it might be right for you.
At Proton International London, we specialise in delivering private proton beam therapy for prostate cancer. Whether you are in the UK or abroad, we would be happy to offer an opinion on your diagnosis and assess whether proton beam therapy could be beneficial for you. Contact us to speak to our friendly and knowledgeable care team.
What is proton beam therapy for prostate cancer?
Radiotherapy is a safe, widely available and established treatment for prostate cancer patients, and has been for decades. In more recent years, proton radiation therapy has emerged as an alternative, offering greater protection to healthy tissue and reducing the risk of life-changing side effects.
Traditional radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells in the prostate gland. Whilst it is highly effective and well tolerated by most people, the radiation passes through the body, known as an ‘exit dose’. This can expose surrounding healthy tissues to radiation, leading to potential side effects.
Proton beam therapy, on the other hand, uses high-energy proton particles instead of traditional X-rays (or photons). What makes it different is control: protons can be directed to stop precisely at the tumour site, delivering a high radiation dose while limiting exposure to healthy cells and surrounding organs, such as the bowel and bladder.
Although proton therapy isn’t yet as widely available as traditional radiotherapy, it is a trusted, highly effective treatment, as evidenced in many clinical trials.
The benefits of proton beam therapy for treating prostate cancer
When treating prostate cancer with radiotherapy, it’s important to consider not just how effectively the tumour can be treated, but also how the radiation may affect nearby areas of the body. The prostate sits close to several sensitive organs and tissues, including the bladder, bowel, and the nerves involved in urinary and sexual function.
Proton beam therapy can lower the risk of side effects and help preserve these everyday bodily functions, making it an excellent choice for treating prostate cancer.
– Reduced risk of side effects: Proton beam therapy is incredibly precise, allowing a high dose to be targeted at the tumour while minimising exposure to vital organs. This can help to reduce the risk of side effects such as erectile dysfunction and help preserve your quality of life.
– Highly effective at treating cancer: Proton therapy treatment is highly effective in treating prostate cancer, and clinical trials have shown it achieves similar or better outcomes than standard radiation therapy.
– Safe and well tolerated: Proton beam therapy is a safe and well-tolerated treatment option with a low risk of severe side effects.
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Am I a suitable prostate candidate for proton beam therapy?
Many patients with localised prostate cancer may be suitable for proton beam therapy. Whether or not it is appropriate depends on several factors, including the stage of your prostate cancer, your general health, and any previous treatments you’ve had.
To find out whether it’s suitable for you, speak to your current care team in the first instance. If they agree that it could be a good option, or you would like a second opinion, you can refer yourself to Proton International London for a detailed consultation.
Our multidisciplinary team, including clinical oncologists, radiographers, physicists and specialist nurses, will make their recommendations on your treatment plan. If proton beam therapy is a good fit, they will explain the benefits and limitations clearly and guide you through what to expect and how to fund your treatment.
About The Proton International London Centre for prostate cancer
Proton International London is the only private proton beam therapy centre in the UK, treating patients from the UK and internationally. We are part of Proton International, a global leader in proton beam therapy, with over 30 years of experience treating cancer patients.
- Unrivalled location: Our proton centre is based at the esteemed University College Hospital (UCH), one of the most respected in the UK. Our experienced radiation oncologists work closely with the first-class clinical team of radiographers and physicists here to deliver the highest quality care.
- World-class expertise: You will be cared for by some of the world’s leading consultants, many of whom are actively involved in clinical research.
- Advanced technology: State-of-the-art treatment centre with world-class private proton beam therapy treatment
- Private and personalised care: You can expect respectful, attentive and discreet support from our team throughout your treatment.
- Central London location: Receive treatment in the heart of the capital with all its amenities and attractions. Ideal if you’re balancing treatment with a busy schedule or travelling with your family.
Support that goes beyond treatment
We understand that cancer affects more than just your body. At Proton International London, we can offer practical, supportive care, including:
- Psychological support from trained professionals who can help you manage stress, anxiety or uncertainty
- Nutritional advice to support your energy levels, strength and recovery
- Complementary therapies to help manage side effects and support wellbeing
We see more than just patients and diagnoses: we’re here to listen, keep you informed and help make important decisions about your wellbeing.
Our prostate cancer consultants
Paying for your private prostate cancer treatment
The treatment at Proton International London is available to insured and self-paying patients, both from the UK and abroad. We have agreements with key medical insurance providers and can provide a range of payment options. The cost of proton beam therapy varies depending on many factors, including the complexity of the treatment required. We will provide a detailed breakdown of the costs and discuss these with you.
Helping patients from overseas
At Proton International London, we warmly welcome patients from around the world. Our friendly and experienced team are here to support our international patients through every step of their proton beam therapy journey.
If required, our dedicated concierge team can make arrangements such as:
- Travel to London, including flights and visas
- Hospital transport
- Interpreters for any language
- Accommodation for the duration of your stay
- Clinical/medical support
- Payment of treatment through insurance or sponsorship
Find out more about our concierge service and staying in London.
Make an enquiryYour next steps
For all enquiries or questions about proton beam therapy at Proton International London, you can call our helpful team on 020 4629 3598. Alternatively, complete our contact form, and we will be in touch as soon as possible.
To refer yourself for proton beam therapy treatment at Proton International London, please fill out the contact form and select ‘self-referral for a private consultation’. Kindly note that you will be asked to upload relevant medical documents to support your referral.
If you are an NHS patient seeking a referral, consult your care team and oncologist to discuss your suitability for proton beam therapy. Read more about getting a second opinion here.