This book offers a comprehensive, practical guide to understanding the physical and biological characteristics of proton beam radiotherapy.

The applications of proton beams to treatment of solid cancers have expanded exponentially over the last decade because of their physical properties which make it possible to administer a reduced dose to surrounding normal tissues. Accordingly, understanding the basic aspects of proton beam radiotherapy is a matter of utmost concern not only for medical physicists and radiation biologists but also for all physicians who are involved in cancer treatment using proton beams. The major factors include the background of its development, generation and delivery system of proton beams, physical characteristics, biological consequences, and dosimetry.

In addition, radiobiological analyses of protons are crucial to estimate proton radiation exposure in space because proton beams occupy 85 % of galactic cosmic rays. As proton exposure is unavoidable for astronauts in space, it is mandatory to clarify the biological consequences induced by proton beams to reduce risk as much as possible.

The expert contributors to this book provide a clear exposition of the basics of proton beams. Thus the book will greatly benefit not only radiological technicians, medical physicists, and physicians, but also scientists in the fields of cancer radiotherapy and space radiation research.