Proton Partners International has joined hands with the UAE government to break ground on the region's first proton beam therapy cancer treatment centre.

It will later become a part of the Gulf International Cancer Centre (GICC) in Abu Dhabi, said a statement from Proton Partners International.

The centre, known as the Abu Dhabi Proton Centre (ADPC), will be located on a site provided by SBK Holding, the holding company of Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, advisor to the UAE President, it stated.

Working as a highly-targeted type of radiotherapy, proton beam therapy can treat cancers that are otherwise hard-to-reach, with a lower risk of damaging surrounding tissue and causing side effects, it added.

Speaking at the launch, Proton Partners International CEO Mike Moran said: "Today marks an important phase in our plans to revolutionise cancer treatment in the UAE and with works officially started, our vision will soon be a reality."

"There is a growing need for proton beam therapy treatment around the world, as it has been shown to deliver significant results for patients. Its effectiveness at lowering side effects compared to traditional radiation treatment, is transforming the lives of many thousands of cancer patients," stated Moran.

"Currently, there are no centres which offer proton beam therapy in the Middle East, so we are proud that Proton Partners will be the first to be bringing it to the UAE," he added.

Prof Karol Sikora, chief medical officer of Proton Partners International, said: "Studies have shown that at least 10 per cent of patients who receive traditional radiotherapy would be treated more effectively with protons."

"By offering a variety of cancer therapies, this centre will deliver a fully comprehensive level of cancer care, tailored to fit the different needs of each patient – something which is not available in the UAE at the moment," he stated.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Al Nahyan said: "As today marks an important phase in our plans to revolutionise cancer treatment in the UAE and Middle East Region, we aim to provide a world-class medical treatment for all cancer patients."

"Driven by patient-friendly technology, high-quality medical facilities and proven results we give patients hope again. This will add to the numerous advantages the UAE has that makes it a prime destination for medical tourists," he added.-TradeArabia News Service