Loma Linda University Medical Center’s Proton Treatment and Research Center Announces Multiple Clinical Trials Open to Patients

Loma Linda University Medical CenterSandra Levy818-597-8453, x-4

(LLUMC) currently has openings in eight clinical trials for patients with certain types of cancers of the breast, prostate, liver, esophagus and pancreas as well as those with soft-tissue sarcoma. All of the trials involve the use of proton therapy and are approved by the Institutional Review Board, the independent national committee that oversees such trials.

The use of proton beam radiation as a cancer treatment was developed and brought to use by scientists at LLUMC more than 20 years ago. Since that time has cared for more than 15,000 cancer patients, making it the most dynamic proton treatment center in the world.

“The ongoing study of proton therapy helps to enhance patient care and furthers the technology as the premiere radiation treatment modality for cancer and other diseases,” said Jerry D. Slater, M.D., chairman of the LLUMC Proton Treatment & Research Center. “Our clinical research studies provide us with the platforms to improve existing cancer treatment protocols and develop new protocols to treat other diseases.”

The proton beam’s structure makes it the most precise form of radiation. Its pinpoint accuracy allows proton beams to target a specific area while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. “We are continually looking at increasing proton treatment’s safety and reducing its side effects in comparison to other forms of radiation therapy, with the ultimate goal to improve and streamline treatment strategies,” Dr. Slater said.

Current trials to which qualified patients can join include:

Established in 1990, Loma Linda University Medical Center Proton Treatment and Research Center was the first hospital-based proton therapy center in the world. Today the center uses proton beam technology for many types of cancers and has treated more patients than any other proton treatment center worldwide. The center is part of LLUMC’s comprehensive health system, which is widely respected as a healthcare leader pioneering work in such areas as organ transplants, proton treatment for cancers, cardiac care, physical rehabilitation, and acute pediatric and adult care as well as treatments for chemical dependence and other behavioral disorders. The health system – which includes Loma Linda University Medical Center and Children’s Hospital, LLUMC – East Campus, Behavioral Medicine Center, Heart and Surgical Hospital, LLUMC-Murrieta and physician clinics – collectively sees over 30,000 inpatients and about 750,000 outpatient visits a year. Visit us online at .