Proton therapy, an advanced method for treating cancerous tumors, has seen significant adoption in recent years. However, the production of high-energy protons may result in the creation of secondary neutrons and gamma rays, necessitating effective radiation safety measures at proton therapy centers. Recent studies have evaluated the efficacy of shielding at such centers, revealing that the implemented shielding effectively protects the general public from gamma ray radiation. However, these studies have not addressed the issue of secondary neutron radiation field, which is a crucial aspect of dose and radiation safety in proton therapy centers. Additionally, the reference dose for clinical proton beam therapy is based on ionization chamber dosimetry, but data on uncertainties in proton dosimetry are lacking, indicating a need for more comprehensive studies.

The goal of this research topic is to delve deeper into the field of proton therapy, specifically focusing on the aspects of radiation safety and dosimetry. The research aims to address the existing gaps in knowledge regarding secondary neutron radiation field and uncertainties in proton dosimetry. It seeks to answer specific questions related to the efficacy of shielding in proton therapy centers and the potential risks associated with secondary neutron radiation. Additionally, the research aims to test hypotheses related to the accuracy of ionization chamber dosimetry in radiation fields.

To gather further insights into the field of proton therapy, we welcome articles addressing the following themes:
• Evaluation of shielding efficacy in proton therapy centers
• Investigation of secondary neutron radiation field in proton therapy
• Analysis of uncertainties in proton dosimetry
• Comparison of different dosimetry methods in proton therapy
• Development and testing of tools and techniques for improved radiation safety in proton therapy.

By fostering multidisciplinary contributions, this Research Topic aims to support the safe and effective clinical implementation of proton therapy and guide future directions for research and innovation in this rapidly evolving field.

Please note: manuscripts consisting solely of bioinformatics, computational analysis, or predictions of public databases which are not accompanied by validation (independent clinical or patient cohort, or biological validation in vitro or in vivo, which are not based on public databases) are not suitable for publication in this journal.

Disclaimer: Topic Editor Yuting Lin received financial support from IBA. The other Topic Editors declare no competing interests with regards to the Research Topic subject.

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Addressing Radiation Safety and Dosimetry Uncertainties in Proton Therapy

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