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University of Wollongong: Could printable organic x-ray sensors transform treatment for cancer patients?

New research shows promising signs in the effort to develop safer radiotherapy protocols


An international research team, led by the University of Wollongong (UOW), has found wearable organic x-ray sensors could be the answer towards safer radiotherapy protocols for cancer patients.


More than 400 people are diagnosed with cancer every day in Australia and 50 per cent of these people will go on to be treated with radiotherapy. The side-effects of cancer treatment, including radiation, can be debilitating.


Dr Jessie Posar from UOW’s School of Physics is leading the research team exploring the behaviour of organic x-ray sensors. Their paper ‘Flexible Organic X-Ray Sensors: Solving the Key Constraints of PET Substrates’, published today (22 November) in Advanced Functional Materials, shows promising results.


“Radiotherapy aims to use an external beam of ionising radiation to kill or damage cancer cells without damaging surrounding healthy cells or organs. This requires precise delivery of the treatment protocols to optimise outcomes and minimise side effects,” Dr Posar said.


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