DOSIMETRY OF SECONDARY PARTICLES IN PROTON THERAPY USING MONTE CARLO SIMULATIONS AND GEANT4 TOOLKIT

Proton therapy is a rapidly advancing form of radiation treatment that provides superior dose conformity compared to conventional photon therapies, reducing collateral damage to healthy tissues. The precise control of proton beams allows for the delivery of high doses to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. However, the production of secondary particles such as neutrons and photons during proton interactions with tissues presents a significant dosimetric challenge that must be addressed to ensure patient safety. These secondary particles are generated primarily through nuclear interactions between the proton beam and atomic nuclei in the patient's body, leading to additional radiation dose contributions that are not directly part of the intended treatment plan.