The Iranian National Ion Therapy Center (Persian: مرکز ملی یوندرمانی ایران) is an advanced medical and research facility under construction in Karaj, Iran. It is being developed under the supervision of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran to treat cancer patients using heavy ion beams (proton and carbon ions). This center is projected to be the first ion therapy center in Iran and West Asia, and the seventh such facility globally.
History The idea of constructing an ion therapy center in Iran was proposed in the early 2010s. In about 2015, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran signed a cooperation agreement with the Austrian company MedAustron to build this center, with the objective of using proton and carbon beam technologies for cancer treatment.
The facility covers more than 117,000 m² in floor area, with projected costs around €200 million. Equipment testing has already taken place, and parts of the infrastructure are being fine-tuned.
Significance Ion therapy is one of the most advanced methods for cancer treatment, in which heavy ion beams are precisely directed to destroy cancerous cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
Structure The center will consist of multiple units, including: Accelerator hall with a synchrotron Patient treatment rooms Research and training departments Engineering and technical support services
Timeline Construction began in the mid-2010s and the center is projected to be commissioned in 2026 (Persian year 1404).
Related topics Atomic Energy Organization of Iran Radiation therapy Cancer treatment
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