Proton Therapy Center Under Development in Illinois

Experts estimate that every year, nearly 11,000 Illinois cancer patients would benefit from proton therapy, an alternative to traditional radiation treatment but without the short- and long-term side effects. Typically, a proton therapy center can only treat 1,500 patients a year which means that more than six centers are needed in Illinois just to meet the needs of Illinois cancer patients. Nationwide, 250,000 cancer patients only have access to an estimated 6,000 treatment slots available at the five proton therapy centers currently operating.

To make proton therapy available and accessible to more patients in need, a proton therapy center is being developed by Central DuPage Hospital in a partnership with Radiation Oncology Consultants - experienced physicians from the state’s largest radiation oncology practice; and ProCure Treatment Centers - whose staff consists of proton therapy experts with experience building and operating proton therapy centers.

Ground was broken on the Proton Therapy Center of Central DuPage Hospital in a ceremony on October 20, 2008; a celebration that focused on the good news for patients with cancer. The center is expected to begin treating patients by early 2011.

If you would like to receive periodic progress reports on the Proton Therapy Center of Central DuPage Hospital, please submit your email address.