CERN's particle accelerator tech is being reimagined to blast cancer in under a second

CERN tech offers fast Flash radiotherapy to treat cancer efficiently.

: CERN repurposes particle accelerators to advance Flash radiotherapy, delivering intense radiation in under a second. Flash aims to kill tumors while minimizing harm to surrounding cells, improving outcomes for brain cancer patients. Human trials are underway using protons, with exploration into carbon ions and electrons. CERN collaborates with hospitals to enhance accessibility, making Flash feasible worldwide.

CERN is adapting its particle accelerator technology, originally designed for atomic research, to advance a new cancer treatment called Flash radiotherapy. This approach offers the potential to deliver intense doses of radiation in under a second, aiming to target cancerous cells efficiently while sparing healthy tissue.

Flash radiotherapy promises significant benefits for cancers like glioblastoma, with early experiments on mice showing minimal side effects. Researchers and institutions, including Stanford University and Geneva University Hospitals, are optimistic about its application in treating sensitive areas like the brain.

To make this technology widely accessible, CERN is cooperating with various hospitals and companies. This collaboration aims to overcome the challenges of size and cost associated with the equipment, allowing more hospitals to provide Flash therapy. While more research is needed, initial results are promising.

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