Message from the Director
I am pleased to announce that, as of April 1, 2024, I, Sunao Tokumaru, have assumed the position of Director of the Kobe Proton Beam Therapy Center. Established in December 2017 as Japan's first proton therapy facility with a primary focus on pediatric cancer, the Kobe Proton Center has steadily built a solid track record in pediatric treatments from its inception until the present day. We continue to welcome patients from all over Japan and internationally.
In pediatric cancer, as patients live longer due to the success of treatments, managing late complications becomes an important issue. Proton beam therapy has convincingly shown promise in reducing long-term side effects following radiation therapy, making it a highly anticipated treatment option for children with cancer.
Guided by our motto, "Maintaining your uniqueness with outpatient-friendly cancer treatment," our Center also actively treats adult cancer patients, taking advantage of Kobe's accessibility all over. Many of our patients continue working or attending school while receiving treatment. We also collaborate closely with multiple medical institutions in Port Island to provide advanced medical services. We have accumulated treatment experience in conditions that qualify for national health insurance coverage-such as prostate cancer, bone and soft tissue tumors, head and neck cancers, hepatocellular carcinoma, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, pancreatic cancer and lung cancer. There are still numerous diseases not yet covered and treated under the framework of advanced medical care. For those that meet certain criteria, we partner with nearby facilities to combine chemotherapy and other treatments in order to deliver the most effective proton beam therapy possible.
Additionally, our Center is equipped not only with conventional particle therapy (broad-beam irradiation) but also the most advanced form of particle therapy known as 'scanning irradiation'.
As a child, I was hospitalized for an extended period with asthma. During that time, I experienced the sadness of losing friends to cancer-children I had become close to during my treatment. Later, during my school days playing rugby and swimming, I learned that through "discipline" and sustained effort, we can push beyond our perceived limits and compete on equal or greater footing even against formidable opponents.
Along with our dedicated staff, I am committed to harnessing the full potential of proton beam therapy to take on the formidable challenge posed by cancer. We will continue our earnest efforts and sincerely appreciate your unwavering support to our Center.
