New Delhi (ABC Live): The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has introduced a global Brachytherapy Dosimetry Audit aimed at improving the safety and precision of high-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy, a form of internal radiation therapy widely used to treat cancers such as cervical, prostate, and breast cancer.

What Is Brachytherapy and Why Does Accuracy Matter?

HDR brachytherapy involves placing a small radioactive source directly inside or adjacent to a tumour. This targeted approach delivers high doses of radiation to cancerous cells while minimising exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. Because of the high radiation intensity involved, even minor inaccuracies in dose delivery can significantly affect treatment outcomes. Therefore, precise dose verification is critical in clinical settings.

Bridging a Critical Gap in Radiation Safety

Until now, radiation audits primarily focused on external beam radiotherapy, leaving HDR brachytherapy without standardised, routine auditing procedures. The IAEA’s new audit initiative addresses this important gap by helping hospitals prevent both underdosing and overdosing, which can jeopardise patient safety and treatment effectiveness.

How the Audit System Was Developed

In 2021, the IAEA launched Coordinated Research Project E24023, collaborating with nearly 50 cancer centres from 11 countries. Moreover, experts from Brazil, India, China, Iran, and South Africa contributed to creating a method that is simple, affordable, and scalable worldwide.

What the Audit Involves

The audit employs a compact, portable device called a phantom, which medical staff place during HDR treatment sessions to measure radiation delivery accurately. This device contains specialised films and detectors that:

• Record the precise radiation dose administered

• Confirm the correct positioning of the radioactive source

Additionally, the phantom is lightweight and compatible with all major HDR machines and treatment planning systems, ensuring broad applicability.

Proven Results from Global Testing

Fifty-four cancer hospitals participated in real-world testing, completing 59 audits using iridium-192 and cobalt-60 sources across 49 HDR machines. According to Alexis Dimitriadis, former Quality Manager at the IAEA Dosimetry Laboratory, “These results demonstrate that the method is accurate, reliable, and ready for global implementation.” The full study is published in Physics and Imaging in Radiation Oncology.

IAEA’s Role in Strengthening Cancer Care

Jamema Swamidas, Head of the IAEA’s Dosimetry Laboratory, stated, “This initiative exemplifies the IAEA’s role in assisting countries to enhance cancer care quality. The Brachytherapy Dosimetry Audit supports comprehensive treatment verification—from planning to delivery.”

How Hospitals Can Join the Programme

The IAEA encourages hospitals, especially those commissioning new HDR brachytherapy systems, to apply for the audit. Participation improves treatment accuracy, enhances patient safety, and builds confidence in cancer care services.

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