🔬 What Is Proton Beam Therapy for Mesothelioma?

Targeted Radiation with Fewer Side Effects

Proton beam therapy is an advanced type of radiation treatment that uses positively charged atomic particles (protons) to destroy cancer cells. Unlike conventional X-ray radiation, which passes through the body, proton therapy delivers energy directly into the tumor with precision, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

This is especially important in mesothelioma, where tumors grow near vital organs like the heart and lungs.

Source: National Association for Proton Therapy

🎯 How Proton Therapy Works

Here’s how proton therapy targets mesothelioma tumors:

1. Imaging & Mapping
   CT or MRI scans pinpoint the exact tumor size, shape, and location.

2. Treatment Planning
   Radiation oncologists design a custom beam path that maximizes tumor exposure and minimizes collateral tissue damage.

3. Proton Delivery
   Proton beams are directed at the tumor from multiple angles, depositing most of their energy at the tumor site (Bragg peak).

4. Cell Destruction
   Protons damage the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and causing tumor shrinkage or cell death.

⚖️ Benefits of Proton Beam Therapy

Proton therapy is ideal for mesothelioma patients with localized tumors or those ineligible for surgery. Benefits include:

• Greater accuracy than conventional radiation

• Reduced side effects (nausea, fatigue, organ damage)

• Better protection for heart, lungs, and spinal cord

• Improved quality of life during treatment

• Effective for difficult tumor locations

🧬 Who Is Eligible?

Proton beam therapy may be recommended for:

• Pleural mesothelioma (tumors near the lungs)

• Peritoneal mesothelioma (tumors in the abdominal lining)

• Recurrent tumors not suited for more surgery

• Patients with health conditions making them sensitive to traditional radiation

Each case is evaluated by a radiation oncologist, often at a specialized cancer center.

🏥 Where Is It Available?

Proton therapy is available at select U.S. hospitals and cancer centers, including:

• MD Anderson Cancer Center (Texas)

• Mayo Clinic (Minnesota/Florida)

• Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston)

• ProCure Proton Therapy Centers

• Johns Hopkins Medicine

Not all facilities offer proton therapy, so travel may be required.

💰 Costs & Insurance Coverage

Proton therapy is more expensive than traditional radiation, with costs ranging from $60,000–$120,000. However:

• Medicare typically covers it for certain cancers

• Private insurers may require pre-authorization or deny coverage

• Financial aid or legal compensation may help with out-of-pocket expenses

Patients should get written confirmation of coverage before starting.

👨‍⚖️ How a Mesothelioma Lawyer Can Help

A mesothelioma attorney can:

• Identify job sites or products that caused asbestos exposure

• File claims to cover high-cost treatments like proton therapy

• Help secure VA benefits for veterans needing advanced radiation

• Assist families with wrongful death compensation

• Charge no fees unless compensation is won

📞 Free Legal Help for Mesothelioma Radiation Costs

If you or a loved one are exploring advanced treatments like proton beam therapy, legal compensation may ease the financial burden.

Call Now: 800.291.0963
• No upfront costs
• No legal fees unless you win
• Exposure research and claims included
• Help for families, veterans, and workers

Or request help online 24/7