A lot of people these days come in and ask, “Doctor, I heard about proton treatment… is that different from the regular one?” It’s a common question, and it’s good to ask. Both are forms of radiation therapy, both fight cancer, but the way they work inside the body is quite different.

Traditional Radiation — The Familiar One

The traditional method uses X-rays. These rays pass through the body, hit the tumor, and keep going a bit beyond it. That’s why, years ago, some healthy tissue around the cancer used to get affected.
Now, the newer machines are much better. They can aim the beam in a focused way so that it hits mostly the cancer cells. Still, a small part of healthy tissue might receive some exposure, and that’s what causes mild tiredness or skin redness  what we call radiation oncology side effects.
It’s safe, it’s effective, and for many cancers, this is still the standard and most practical choice.

Proton Therapy — The Advanced Approach

Proton therapy uses a different type of energy, called protons. Unlike X-rays, these protons travel to a certain depth and then stop. They don’t pass through the other side of the body. Imagine throwing a ball that hits a wall and simply stays there. That’s what makes proton therapy so precise.
Because it stops right where the tumor ends, it protects the healthy organs better. It’s useful when cancers are near sensitive areas like the brain, eyes, or spine. For children too, it’s an excellent choice since their growing organs are more delicate.

How It Feels During Treatment

Patients often ask if proton therapy feels different. Not really. You don’t feel the beam in either treatment. The session lasts a few minutes, and you can go home afterward. Fatigue can still happen because your body is healing, but proton therapy usually causes fewer visible reactions on the skin.
Both are painless, and both work quietly inside your body.

How We Choose Between Them

We decide based on the type, size, and location of the tumor. If the cancer is deep or close to an organ that must be protected, proton therapy might be the better option.
If it’s a larger or more widespread area, the traditional method works just as well and is easier to plan. Sometimes, both are used together for better control.
There’s no “one best” for everyone. The best plan is always the one that suits your body and your cancer type.

Why IOCI

At IOCI, which is known as one of the best cancer treatment hospitals in India, we don’t just follow protocols  we personalize them. Every plan is checked by radiation oncologists, physicists, and technicians before starting. The aim is simple: highest accuracy, least discomfort, and a clear understanding of what’s happening.
Patients are often nervous before radiation begins, and that’s okay. Our job is to make sure you’re informed, comfortable, and supported every step of the way.

Consult us at any of our locations across IOCI Noida, Greater Noida, Mumbai, Indore, Chh. Sambhajinagar, Agartala, Saharanpur, Kanpur and Jodhpur.