On April 26, 2026, the Taiwan Head and Neck Cancer Concern Association held a health education event at Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital focused on boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) for head and neck cancer patients.
The event aimed to increase patient awareness of emerging treatment options
Dr. Yang Zhengjie, president of the Taiwan Head and Neck Cancer Concern Association, coordinated the “Understanding Precision Radiation Therapy – BNCT and Future Trends” series to improve access to medical information for patients and families.
Medical specialists from Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital explained BNCT’s mechanism and clinical progress
Radiation oncologist Dr. Qiu Wenyan and head and neck center director Dr. Hou Siren presented details on how BNCT selectively accumulates boron-containing drugs in tumor cells, then uses neutron irradiation to generate high-linear energy transfer reactions that destroy cancer cells while sparing surrounding tissue.
The hospital’s integrated care model supports comprehensive head and neck cancer treatment
Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital’s head and neck team combines otolaryngology, hematology-oncology and radiation oncology with nutritional support, rehabilitation, and psychosocial services through its cancer resource center to provide full-cycle care from diagnosis to follow-up.
The therapy is considered promising for reducing side effects compared to conventional treatments
Based on its precision and selectivity, BNCT may reduce adverse effects associated with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, and domestic efforts are underway to advance clinical research and potential inclusion in standard treatment options.
What is BNCT and how does it work?
BNCT involves administering a boron-containing compound that accumulates in tumor cells, followed by neutron irradiation, which triggers a reaction that releases high-energy particles to destroy cancer cells at a short range.
Why is head and neck cancer a key focus for BNCT development?
Head and neck cancer is currently considered one of the most promising indications for BNCT due to the therapy’s potential to minimize damage to functions like swallowing, speech, and appearance that are often affected by conventional treatments.