Konyang University Hospital to introduce heavy ion therapy in partnership with Japan’s QST

Konyang University Hospital has partnered with Japan's National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST) to study heavy ion therapy.

Heavy ion therapy, which accelerates carbon ions to near-light speeds to precisely destroy cancer cell DNA, has been called a “dream cancer treatment” due to its low side effects and high therapeutic effectiveness. In Korea, Severance Hospital was the first to begin heavy ion therapy.

Japan's QST is a national organization that researches advanced science and technology, including quantum science, radiation medicine, and fusion energy. QST Hospital, operated by the organization, is the first medical institution worldwide to apply heavy ion therapy in clinical practice.

Ranking Konyang University Hospital officials recently visited QST Hospital in Chiba Prefecture and signed an MOU for cooperation in the field of heavy ion therapy.

With this agreement, Konyang University Hospital plans to provide a broader range of treatment options for intractable cancer patients in Korea and to introduce heavy ion therapy and exchange technologies.

The two institutions will share know-how and clinical data on heavy ion accelerator therapy and promote joint research and medical staff exchanges, according to the hospital.

“Heavy ion therapy can be a viable alternative for patients who are limited by conventional radiotherapy,” said Dr. Toshiyuki Shirai, director of QST. “Through this collaboration, we will do our best to conduct clinical and technical exchanges to provide Korean patients with intractable cancers with faster and more effective treatment opportunities.”

Lee Sang-eok, director of Konyang University Hospital Cancer Center, said, “This agreement is significant in providing more advanced treatment opportunities for Korean patients with intractable cancers.”

“With QST Hospital's world-class clinical experience and know-how, we will do our best to open new avenues of hope for patients with inoperable or recurrent cancers,” Lee added.

Dr. Kim Yong-seok, director of the hospital’s Medical Information Center, and Dr. Moon Ju-ik, head of the Department of Medicine, accompanied Lee on his visit to QST Hospital.