Proton beam therapy is an advanced form of external radiotherapy that uses high-energy proton beams instead of photon x-ray beams or electrons. Carefully measured doses of protons are delivered to the precise area needing treatment, using the latest IBA ProteusONE technology. This ensures that the delivery of proton beam therapy is highly accurate and prevents the risk of radiation reaching surrounding healthy tissue.
Radiotherapy is used to kill and destroy cancer cells. It utilises radiation in the form of high-energy x-rays, known as photons, to kill and damage the cancerous cells and prevent their growth and reproduction. It can be used as a non-surgical option to treat cancer, and it can also be used to shrink a tumour or in combination with other treatments.
The Rutherford Cancer Centres and Elekta are bringing the next generation of personalised adaptive radiotherapy technology to oncology centres across the UK, with the new MR-linac Elekta Unity now available at the Rutherford Cancer Centre North West in Liverpool.
Our regular iron clinic takes place weekly at our North East centre and is open to all adults experiencing difficulties in managing an iron deficiency.
Have you recently been diagnosed with iron deficiency?
You may be able to have intravenous iron instead. At the Rutherford Iron Clinic in Northumberland,you can get your iron deficiency treated with a single infusion of iron which will rapidly replace the iron you are missing. Our regular clinic is run by a consultant haematologist whose NHS practice is at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
Why is iron important in my body?
Iron is a mineral – it keeps your mind and body healthy. It’s used to make haemoglobin, an essential part of red blood cells. Haemoglobin transports oxygen from your lungs around your body, allowing the cells to produce energy. Most people get enough iron from wholegrains, green leafy vegetables, meat, nuts and dried fruit in their diet.
How much do I need?
The recommended daily iron intake is:
8mg for women aged 19-50
7mg for men over 18
7mg for women over 50
Symptoms of iron deficiency
The common symptoms in adults with iron deficiency are mainly due to anaemia, but the same symptoms may also be present in those with the first stage of iron deficiency before the anaemia develops.
Common symptoms include:
Feeling exhausted and lacking energy
Being short of breath
Palpitations
Paler skin than normal
Hair loss
Feeling colder than usual
Poor concentration
Restless legs
How can iron deficiency be diagnosed?
Your doctor will have confirmed iron deficiency through blood tests which measure your ferritin levels (ferritin is a blood cell protein that contains iron) and these will all be reviewed in the Rutherford Iron Clinic to ensure iron infusions are the right thing for you. Some tests may need repeating before we can proceed.
How can iron deficiency be treated?
The first approach is to look at your diet and lifestyle and advise on some changes you can make to increase your iron levels. Iron tablets are usually given first, but these do not suit everyone and can take a while to work. The fastest way to return your iron levels to normal is via an iron infusion.
How much does it cost?
An initial consultation with our consultant haematologist costs £150. Or you can opt for the full self-pay package which is £570 which includes your initial appointment, along with any tests or treatment needed.
Book an appointment
Clinics are held weekly at the Rutherford Cancer Centre North East.