United by Unique: Cancer Brachytherapy at AMDI, USM – Additional Weaponry Against Cancer on World Cancer Day 2025

United by Unique: Cancer Brachytherapy at AMDI, USM – Additional Weaponry Against Cancer on World Cancer Day 2025

World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4th, serves as a poignant reminder of the global fight against cancer. The 2025 theme, “United by Unique,” resonates deeply with the evolving landscape of cancer care, emphasizing the importance of personalized treatment approaches. This theme underscores the fact that while cancer affects millions, each individual’s experience is unique, demanding tailored solutions that address their specific needs and circumstances. In this context, the advanced brachytherapy services available at the Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (AMDI), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang, stand as a beacon of hope, embodying the “United by Unique” philosophy by offering innovative and personalized cancer treatment.

Photo By A.Prof Dr. Yusri
Brachytherapy in progress monitoring by Physicist

Brachytherapy, a form of radiotherapy where a sealed radiation source is placed close to or inside the treated area, offers several advantages over traditional external beam radiation. Its precision allows for a highly targeted radiation delivery, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues and organs. This translates to fewer side effects and a better quality of life for patients. AMDI, USM, has distinguished itself by pioneering the use of innovative brachytherapy techniques, particularly for cancers of the cervix, prostate, and breast.

What sets AMDI apart is its commitment to innovation and personalized care. The institute employs a multidisciplinary team of experts, including oncologists, physicists, surgeons, specialized oncology nurses and various supporting healthcare professionals who work collaboratively to develop individualized treatment plans for each patient. This approach recognizes that every cancer case is unique, requiring a tailored strategy that considers the patient’s specific tumour characteristics, overall health and personal preferences.

Photo By A. Prof Dr. Yusri
Dr. Fakrurazi examining oral cavity

Furthermore, AMDI has been at the forefront of developing and implementing new brachytherapy techniques, such as high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy. HDR brachytherapy delivers a high dose of radiation in a short period, reducing the overall treatment time and improving patient convenience. This technique has shown promising results in various cancers, including established techniques in cervical and prostate cancer. Additionally, AMDI also offers a vast array of brachytherapy for other cancer locations such as the oral cavity (including Oral Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma), oesophagus, breast, liver metastasis and sarcoma. One of the unique innovations at AMDI is the new technique in treating tongue cancer known as HyBIRT (Hybrid Brachytherapy followed by Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy). This technique integrates upfront brachytherapy and adoptive IMRT given as concurrent chemotherapy. This allows for precise and targeted destruction of cancer cells while preserving normal tissues. Tongue preservation is achieved via this technique hence resulting in potential speech and swallowing functions to achieve satisfactory outcomes, offering patients a better chance of cure and a higher quality of life.

On World Cancer Day 2025, as we reflect on the “United by Unique” theme, the brachytherapy services at AMDI, USM, exemplify the power of personalized medicine in the fight against cancer. By combining advanced technology, innovative techniques, and a patient-centered approach delivered by multi-disciplinary experts, AMDI is making a significant difference in the lives of cancer patients, offering them hope for a better future. The institute’s dedication to providing unique and tailored cancer care aligns perfectly with the global call for personalized medicine, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible treatment for their specific needs. As we move forward, it is through such advancements and a united commitment to personalized care that we can truly make a difference in the global fight against cancer.

Further reading:

1.    https://aboutbrachytherapy.com/case/treating-sheilas-tongue-cancer-with-brachytherapy-2/

2.    https://news.usm.my/index.php/english-news/6592-hybirt-usm-develops-new-pioneering-technique-in-treating-tongue-cancer

3.    https://www.abcpenang.com/

4.    https://ppusmb.usm.my/brakiterapi

#WORLDCANCERDAY2025  #UNITEDBYUNIQUE #AMDIUSM

By

Assoc. Professor Dr. Muhamad Yusri Musa

Lecturer / Consultant Otorhinolaryngologist and Surgical Brachytherapist

Head of Medical and Surgical Services

Dept of Clinical Medicine

Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, USM

 



Assoc Professor Dr.  A. Gokulakumar

Lecturer / Consultant Radiation Oncologist and Brachytherapist

Dept of Biomedical Imaging

Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, USM