Next Generation Cancer Therapy: BNCT
— Target the tumor. Protect your body.
What is BNCT?
BNCT (Boron Neutron Capture Therapy) is a special type of radiation treatment that uses a substance called boron, combined with tiny particles known as neutrons, to precisely target and destroy cancer cells.
This innovative approach is designed to treat challenging cancers, including those that do not respond to standard radiation methods—such as tumors in the brain, head and neck region, and melanoma.
BNCT differs from traditional cancer treatments in that it targets cancer cells more precisely, reducing damage to normal cells and thus being considered less burdensome on the body. In conventional radiation therapy, the treatment often requires multiple visits and can inadvertently harm normal cells. In contrast, BNCT generally requires just one session of neutron irradiation to be effective. As a result, it is considered to have less of a physical strain due to fewer hospital visits.
Now Available to International Patients:
With full support from services provided by CUREVEL, international patients can now access BNCT treatment in Japan safely and smoothly.
Supporting You, Every Step of the Way
You don’t have to walk it alone
We believe advanced medicine should come with human warmth.
Receiving BNCT can feel like a big step into the unknown.
That’s why we offer more than just access to treatment — we provide personalized, compassionate support from experienced nurses who understand the medical and emotional challenges you may face.
Key Benefits of BNCT
1.Minimal side effect:
Since the alpha particles and lithium-7 nuclei produced in the nuclear reaction have very short travel distances (about the diameter of a cell), they selectively destroy cancer cells while sparing nearby healthy cells. This results in fewer side effects compared to traditional radiation therapy, which often affects both cancerous and healthy tissues.
2. Effective for Resistant Tumors:
BNCT is particularly effective for treating cancers that are resistant to traditional therapies, such as certain brain tumors, head and neck cancers, and melanomas. It provides an alternative where other treatments may not be effective.
3.Potential for Single Session Treatment:
Often, a single BNCT session is sufficient to deliver the necessary therapeutic effect, compared to traditional radiation therapy that typically requires multiple sessions over several weeks. This can reduce the overall stress and inconvenience for patients.
4.Improved Quality of Life:
By reducing the treatment duration and side effects, BNCT can help maintain a higher quality of life during and after treatment, which is a critical consideration for cancer patients.
Japan's Strength in BNCT
1.Clinical Expertise and Volume:
Japan has been at the forefront of BNCT research and clinical applications for several decades. Japanese medical institutions have conducted hundreds of BNCT treatments, accumulating extensive clinical experience and data. For instance, significant studies and trials have been carried out at facilities like the Kyoto University Research Reactor Institute (KURRI) and newly established centers like Southern Tohoku BNCT Research Center, which contribute to a robust body of evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of BNCT in Japan.
2.Research and Development:
Japan's investment in BNCT technology and research significantly surpasses that of many other countries. Japan has developed several boron drugs and neutron sources specifically designed for BNCT. This ongoing research and development ensure that BNCT in Japan remains at the cutting edge of cancer treatment technology.
3.Success Rates and Safety:
Japanese medical centers report high success rates with BNCT, particularly for head and neck cancers, as well as glioblastomas, which are notoriously difficult to treat with conventional therapies. Published data often highlight the lower incidence of severe side effects and complications in Japanese BNCT treatments compared to traditional radiation therapies, underscoring its safety and effectiveness.
4.International Collaboration and Training:
Japan not only leads in BNCT treatments but also in training medical professionals from around the world in this specialized technique. This global leadership in BNCT education ensures that Japanese practitioners are continually updated with the latest techniques and treatment protocols.
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Can my family member come with me to the hospital?Often yes — and we’ll check the hospital’s policy in advance. Some facilities also offer guest accommodations.
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How do I know if treatment in Japan is possible?Send us your medical records (test results, doctor’s notes, images, etc.). Our nurses will review them and consult with Japanese hospitals. We’ll let you know what’s possible, honestly and clearly.
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How do I pay?We ask for advance payment, which you can send by bank transfer, credit card, or other international payment methods. We’ll handle all payments in Japan on your behalf.
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What happens if I can't travel to Japan after I’ve already booked my treatment?Refunds depend on timing and services already arranged. We’ll explain everything clearly before you pay. Please let us know as soon as possible. We’ll help cancel or reschedule your appointments and apply our cancellation policy fairly. We’re here to support you — even when plans change.
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What is a Medical Stay Visa?It’s a special visa that lets patients and companions visit Japan for medical reasons. We’ll help prepare the necessary documents if this visa applies to you.
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What does it cost?Costs vary depending on your medical needs and travel plans.We’ll provide a clear quote before you commit.
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I want to come alone. Is that okay?Yes, as long as your health allows it. We’ll meet you on arrival and support your journey.
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I don’t speak Japanese at all. Can I still receive medical care in Japan?Yes, you can. CUREVEL provides support in multiple languages including English and Chinese. We offer interpretation during medical appointments and can also assist with airport pickup and accommodation arrangements. In addition, our multilingual support team is available 24/7. Please feel free to contact us via the inquiry form or phone.
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Can I get a second opinion without traveling to Japan?Yes. We’ll send your records to a Japanese specialist and deliver a translated report all remotely.
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How do I begin using CUREVEL?Just contact us via our website. A nurse will respond and send you a simple form to understand your condition and needs.
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I want to choose a specific hospital. Can I?Yes. If you already know the hospital you wish to visit, tell us. If not, we’ll recommend the best options based on your condition and preferences.
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I’m worried about staying in Japan during treatment.We understand. That’s why we provide lifestyle support too — like booking hotels near hospitals, arranging airport pickups, and helping you settle in. Our nurses support you throughout your stay.
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What if I have religious or dietary restrictions?We’ll communicate with hospitals and hotels on your behalf. Our team has experience arranging vegetarian, Halal, and allergy-friendly meals.
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Who provides support at CUREVEL?All coordination is handled by licensed nurses. From health advice to hospital communication, we ensure your safety and peace of mind.
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How much does the treatment cost?Treatment is provided on a self-pay basis (not covered by public insurance). The total cost depends on the patient’s condition, so please contact us for details.
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Is it possible to have a consultation just to get information?Yes, consultations are available. Please prepare the following documents with the help of your primary care physician: -Referral letter or medical information summary -Treatment data, including: -Medical images (CT, MRI, PET, etc.) -Blood test results -Pathology reports -Records of any previous radiation treatments (treatment plans, dose summaries, etc.)
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How is BNCT administered?There are several types of boron, but the type used in BNCT is called 'boron-10'. Boron-10 has a propensity to react with very low-energy neutrons, known as 'thermal neutrons'. Initially, a special solution containing boron-10 (10B) is administered to the patient through an IV drip, causing the boron-10 to accumulate in cancer cells. Subsequently, the affected area is irradiated with neutron beams from outside the body. These neutron beams have very low energy, and thus minimal impact on the human body. However, when these neutrons collide with boron-10, a nuclear reaction occurs, producing radiation (alpha particles and lithium-7 nuclei). These two particles travel only a very short distance—about the size of a single cell—which allows the energy to be concentrated inside the cancer cells and that is why selectively destroys them Thermal neutrons can only travel a limited distance, which means BNCT might not be suitable for tumors located deep inside the body. Even so, the ability to target cancer cells at the cellular level represents a new and promising approach that was not possible with traditional radiation treatments.
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Can I explore Japan during the day and receive treatment in the evening?Yes. Among the hospitals we partner with, some offer evening radiation therapy sessions, with treatment available until around 10 PM. This allows patients to enjoy sightseeing or other daytime activities before receiving care in the evening.
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Can elderly patients undergo this treatment?While the treatment itself may require only one session, preparation for the treatment takes about 3 hours, preparation on the day of the treatment takes about 2 hours, and the treatment lasts for 1 hour. Patients must maintain the same position during the treatment, but the preparation periods require changes in posture, such as standing up and sitting down, which demands a certain level of physical fitness. The treatment preparation can be challenging for individuals who have difficulty climbing stairs. Generally, those who are bedridden or constantly require a wheelchair are not suitable candidates for this treatment.
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Which cancers can be treated with IMRT?IMRT is particularly beneficial for tumors located near vital organs and tissues. It is commonly used to treat: -Prostate cancer -Head and neck cancers -Lung cancer -Brain cancer -Gastrointestinal cancers -Breast cancer Additionally, it can be applied in cases of lymphoma, sarcoma, gynecologic cancers, and select pediatric cancers. IMRT causes minimal damage to healthy tissue, making it suitable for treating most tumors that can be identified through imaging. However, eligibility depends on the patient’s overall condition and the nature of the disease. Please consult with a doctor for an evaluation. These treatment sessions are completely painless.
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How long does an IMRT session take?Most IMRT sessions last between 10 and 30 minutes.
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How much does the treatment cost?Treatment is provided on a self-pay basis (not covered by public insurance). The total cost depends on the patient’s condition, so please contact us for details.
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Can I explore Japan during the day and receive treatment in the evening?Yes. Among the hospitals we partner with, some offer evening radiation therapy sessions, with treatment available until around 10 PM. This allows patients to enjoy sightseeing or other daytime activities before receiving care in the evening.
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Is it possible to have a consultation just to get information?Yes, consultations are available. Please prepare the following documents with the help of your primary care physician: -Referral letter or medical information summary -Treatment data, including: -Medical images (CT, MRI, PET, etc.) -Blood test results -Pathology reports -Records of any previous radiation treatments (treatment plans, dose summaries, etc.)
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Is hospitalization required?All treatments are performed using IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) and IGRT (Image-Guided Radiation Therapy), which significantly reduce side effects compared to conventional radiation therapy. As a result, hospitalization is generally not necessary, and treatment can be received on an outpatient basis. In most cases, patients can continue their daily activities such as work or hobbies like golf.
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How many treatment sessions are required?IMRT is typically administered five days a week for several weeks. The total number of sessions depends on several factors, including: -Type and stage of cancer. -Tumor size and location. -Overall treatment plan and patient response.
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How is IMRT administered?IMRT treatment starts with a CT scan to create a precise 3D model of the tumor. Radiation oncologists and medical physicists then develop a tailored treatment plan using sophisticated computer algorithms. Each session involves: -Positioning the patient accurately on a treatment table. -Using small skin markings as reference points to align the radiation beams. -Delivering radiation from multiple angles for optimal tumor targeting.
