Radiation Dose Optimization in Young Adults and Pediatric Patients

The Cyclotron Centre Bronowice Krakow Proton Therapy Centre is a remarkable place where innovation meets cancer care, uniting physics, medicine, biology, and chemistry in collaborative, interdisciplinary efforts that advance both science and patient treatment. Outside of clinical hours—primarily at night and on weekends—the proton beam is used for a wide range of research applications, including medical physics, nuclear physics, dosimetry, microdosimetry, radiobiology, radiochemistry, materials science, and commercial services. CCB researchers investigate the synergistic effects of proton beams and chemotherapeutic agents, develop LET-based dosimetry methods, and optimize treatment planning to reflect biological effectiveness and organ motion. A key objective is the standardization of planning protocols across centers to ensure consistent clinical practice and reliable comparison of treatment outcomes worldwide.

We collaborate with leading centers specializing in dosimetry and proton therapy to minimize radiation exposure in young patients, and our goal is to expand the scope of this effort by implementing appropriate methods and procedures. Our team has longstanding experience in low-dose measurements as part of EURADOS activities, and we are currently launching the EU-funded PIANOFORTE project (2024–2029), aimed at advancing pediatric cancer treatment and radiation protection (https://pianoforte-partnership.eu/news/kayac+-study)..)

he project aims to enhance the safety and effectiveness of radiotherapy in pediatric oncology by reducing radiation exposure through advanced dosimetry and proton therapy techniques. In collaboration with leading international centers, we aim to develop and implement personalized treatment protocols, including the potential use of compensators —an area in which we have established expertise or/and CBCT—to further minimize radiation to healthy tissues while maintaining therapeutic efficacy. The project also emphasizes knowledge exchange, clinical data analysis, and the development of best practices for treating young patients