Applications of particle accelerators in medicine

Area of Science:

• Medical physics
• Nuclear medicine
• Radiation oncology

Background:

• Over 20,000 particle accelerators are globally operational, with half dedicated to biomedical applications.
• Particle accelerators are crucial in radionuclide production and radiation therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in particle accelerator applications for radionuclide production and cancer therapy.
• To explore the potential of electron and proton accelerators for molybdenum-99 production.
• To discuss the use of protons and carbon ions in advanced cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on particle accelerator technology in medicine.
• Analysis of high-energy electron and proton accelerator applications for radionuclide generation.
• Examination of proton and carbon ion therapy principles and technological requirements.

Main Results:

• Electron and proton accelerators show potential for future molybdenum-99 production, an alternative to fission reactors.
• Proton and carbon ion therapy offer targeted cancer treatment with specific physical and biological advantages.
• Recent developments in accelerator technology are addressing the demands of advanced medical applications.

Conclusions:

• Particle accelerators are pivotal in the evolution of medical isotope production.
• Advanced accelerator-based therapies, including proton and carbon ion treatments, are expanding cancer care options.
• Continued innovation in accelerator technology is essential for future medical breakthroughs.