3rd CERN Baltic Conference (CBC 2023)

Baltic particle therapy center initiative: status report, lessons learned and next steps

Not scheduled

20m

268 (Riga Technical University)

Speakers

Kristaps Palskis (Riga Technical University (LV)) Toms Torims (Riga Technical University)

Description

Background: In the recent years, with the active work of CERN Baltic Group in close collaboration with scientists from Next Ion Medical Machine Study (NIMMS) group of the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), an initiative has been started for an innovative particle therapy center in the Baltic States. To fulfill the initiative, a dedicated working group “Advanced Particle Therapy center for the Baltic States” was developed within the framework of CERN Baltic Group. Conceptual report for the proposed facility was developed in Spring of 2022, followed by active engagement with political, scientific and medical community stakeholders. At the end of 2022, bi-lateral meetings between the initiative working group and stakeholders were held at each of the Baltic States, highlighting the areas that need to be developed and explored in more detail, proposed as further steps in 2023.

Aims: Aim of this work is to present the current status of the initiative, focusing on reports on two key events – workshops – in 2023: “Particle therapy - future for the Baltic States? State-of-play, synergies and challenges” and “Clinics and research: considerations to create a novel particle therapy center”. Key outcomes are to be indicated, while also proposing next steps of the initiative.

Contents: As indicated, work will focus on two workshops done in the framework of working group activities. Key facts, figures and considerations discussed within the events will be provided. Work will follow the multi-disciplinary principle of the workshops themselves, delving into topics of cancer statistics and medical case development, clinical indications, technological considerations, integration of nuclear medicine aspects and educational needs for personnel. Further insights from more educationally oriented “Clinics and research: considerations to create a novel particle therapy center” workshop will also be presented.
In conclusion, current key take-away messages after the events will be indicated, while discussing their role in future steps and planned activities of the initiative.