Energetic carbon ions are characterized by high ionization density and high relative biological effectiveness (RBE), with a sharp dose maximum at a discrete penetration depth that coincides with the peak physical dose around the so-called Bragg peak. This concentrated energy deposition can be precisely targeted in three dimensions, minimizing the risk of direct damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Heavy ion beams are thus regarded as an optimal form of radiation for tumor radiotherapy, making heavy ion tumor therapy an area of growing global interest.

The Institute of Modern Physics (IMP), Chinese Academy of Sciences, has developed a hospital-based tumor therapy facility known as the Heavy Ion Medical Machine (HIMM). The first demonstration HIMM facility was installed in Wuwei, Gansu Province, certified as medical equipment on September 29, 2019, and officially put into clinical operation on March 26, 2020. By the end of 2025, it is expected that 3,000 patients will have been treated using this facility, with remarkable therapeutic outcomes.

Additional carbon ion therapy projects have been launched in cities including Lanzhou, Putian, Wuhan, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Changchun, and Jinan. Among these, the facilities in Lanzhou, Putian, Wuhan, and Hangzhou have already been put into clinical operation. As more carbon ion projects are constructed and commissioned, a greater number of cancer patients will benefit from HIMM technology.

HIMM has successfully established a complete industrial chain covering basic research, technological R&D, product demonstration, and industrial application. It serves as a model example of large-scale scientific facilities contributing to human health and addressing societal needs.

IMP continues to enhance the uniqueness and advanced capabilities of its medical devices to boost market competitiveness. The second-generation Heavy Ion Medical Machine (SIMM) in Huizhou, Guangdong Province, is currently under construction. This project will lay a solid technical foundation for advancing accessible healthcare and promoting the commercialization of heavy ion therapy technology.

Figure 1. Heavy Ion Medical Machine-synchrotron accelerator (Image from IMP)

Figure 2. The Second generation heavy Ion Medical Machine  (Image from IMP)

Contact:

Ms. Wang   

Tel: 86-931-4969623  

mail: wangk@impcas.ac.cn

ADD: 509 Nanchang Road, Lanzhou Gansu, China,730000