To continue getting breaking news and the full stories from The Boston Globe, subscribe today.

The Boston Globe

Business

Boston.com

MGH launching test of proton beam therapy

5-year MGH study seeks definitive answers about costly prostate cancer treatment

By Carolyn Y. Johnson

 |  Globe Staff  

  May 14, 2012

Massachusetts General Hospital is launching a large, long-awaited trial this month that will test whether a controversial cutting-edge proton beam therapy, already being used across the country, is more effective than standard radiation treatment for prostate cancer. Proton beam therapy, a targeted and controlled way to administer radiation to a tumor, has become a flashpoint in the debate over health care reform.

Stay with the story. Get full access to BostonGlobe.com for just 99¢

Unlimited access to BostonGlobe.com for only 99¢ for the first 4 weeks. You can cancel at any time.

  • The FULL story all day: Enjoy all of the high-quality, in-depth journalism in the print edition of the Boston Globe — plus breaking news that's updated 24/7.
  • A truly reader-friendly format: It's online news that looks and reads just like the newspaper — uncluttered, uninterrupted.
  • Breakthrough technology: The responsive design automatically adapts content so it always reads perfectly on the digital device of your choice.
Get started today

Free access for home delivery subscribers.

Just need to link your home delivery account; one easy step.

Link my home delivery account

BostonGlobe.comSubscriber Log In

Contact us for help