The world’s first male patient with pharyngeal cancer was treated with the accelerator-based BNCT (Boron Neutron Capture Therapy) on May 26, 2020 at Southern TOHOKU BNCT Research Center, Southern TOHOKU Hospital Group.

At 11 a.m., the Founder and Chairman of the Board Dr. Kazuo Watanabe was invited to press the button to switch on the BNCT device. The radiotherapy was given by Prof. Yoshihiro Takai, Director of BNCT Research Center and Dr. Katsumi Hirose, Vice Director of BNCT Research Center. 

The male patient in his 50s was successfully treated. He is our center’s first clinical case since the AB-BNCT system and boron drug obtained an approval from Japanese government in March 2020. BNCT treatment will be covered by national health insurance in Japan from June 2020.

BNCT, which is one of particle beam therapies, causes reactions between low-energy thermal neutrons and tumor-seeking boron compounds to destroy cancer cells with pinpoint accuracy. In addition, BNCT is a body-friendly treatment that can minimize negative effects to normal cells and the burdens to patients. Locally unresectable recurrent or unresectable advanced head and neck cancer with radiation resistant is expected to become indications. Clinical trials will aim to expand other indications in the near future. 

For full details visit http://southerntohoku-bnct.com/