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 available at the Rutherford Cancer Centre North West in Liverpool in 2021.
Dr Helen Turnbull has been a Consultant in Clinical Oncology at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust since 2011. Prior to that, she completed a fellowship at UC Davis Hospital, California, focusing on Image-Guided Radiotherapy.
She now specialises in radiotherapy for lung and breast cancer, as well as prescribe systemic treatment for lung cancer. She's also one of the leads for the stereotactic service at the Freeman Hospital, and offers stereotactic treatment for early lung cancer and oligometastatic disease.
In her spare time, Helen enjoys spending time outdoors, running, cycling or walking and likes to relax with her family.
Qualifications
MBChB,
MA ( Cam)
FRCR
MRCP
Memberships
FRCR
Research interests
Dr Helen Turnbull is PI on several trials, including those for lung cancer and breast cancer, as well as trials involving stereotactic treatment
Declaration
Dr Helen Turnbull does not hold a share or financial interest in the Rutherford Cancer Centres or another Rutherford Health plc company.
Dr Helen Turnbull does not have a share or financial interest in equipment used at the Rutherford Cancer Centres or another Rutherford Health plc company.
Dr Helen Turnbull does not hold any paid advisory role(s) at the Rutherford Cancer Centres or on behalf of Rutherford Cancer Centres or Rutherford Health plc.
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