Step-and-Shoot Spot-Scanning Proton Arc Therapy (SPArc)

GS3 – Science & Technology

Context

Recently, the Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital in the USA used SPArc therapy to treat a patient suffering from Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC), a rare cancer affecting the salivary glands or head and neck regions.

What is SPArc Therapy?

SPArc (Step-and-Shoot Spot-Scanning Proton Arc Therapy) is a cutting-edge proton-based radiation treatment that allows for extremely precise targeting of cancerous tumors, minimizing exposure to healthy surrounding tissues.

• It uses computer-guided proton beams to irradiate the tumor.
• Unlike conventional radiation (photon-based), SPArc reduces side effects significantly.

Advantages of SPArc:

• High Precision: Effectively delivers radiation directly to the tumor, sparing nearby organs.
• Minimal Side Effects: Patients showed only minor skin irritation, unlike traditional therapy.
• Ideal for Larger Tumors: Especially useful in managing large or complex tumor sites.

Challenges with SPArc:

• Geographic Miss Risk: Small tumors may go undetected or be poorly targeted.
• Very Expensive: High treatment costs can strain healthcare systems.
• Limited Usage: Currently applicable to only certain types of cancer.
• Positioning Sensitivity: Even slight movements, like breathing, may affect accuracy.

About Cancer:

Cancer is a condition where the body’s cells begin to divide uncontrollably and can spread to other organs.
In the South-East Asia region, India ranks 3rd in cancer incidence and 2nd in cancer-related deaths.

Cancer Treatment Methods:

• Photon-Based Therapy: Uses X-rays, but often damages healthy tissues. Side effects include xerostomia (dry mouth).
• Proton Therapy: Like SPArc and SFO-IMPT, it focuses radiation more accurately to reduce collateral damage.
• Chemotherapy: Used in advanced ACC cases but generally limited in effectiveness.
• CAR-T Cell Therapy: India’s NexCAR19 (launched in 2024) treats blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.

India’s Anti-Cancer Initiatives:

1. National Cancer Program (2010): Focuses on early detection and strengthening treatment facilities.
2. Ayushman Bharat Yojana: Financially supports cancer patients, covering surgery, chemo, and radiotherapy.
3. NexCAR19: India’s first indigenous CAR-T therapy for blood cancers.
4. Cancer Genomics Repository: National database for cancer-related genetic data, aiding personalized treatment.
5. National Cancer Grid (2012): Connects cancer centers across India to ensure uniform standards of care.
6. Health Minister’s Cancer Patient Fund: Offers financial aid up to ₹5 lakh per patient (max ₹15 lakh).