Researchers at the University of Victoria in Canada have developed a low-cost radiotherapy system called KOALA, designed to provide cancer treatment in low- and middle-income countries and geographically remote rural regions. The system uses kilovoltage X-rays, which are significantly cheaper than megavoltage X-rays used in conventional radiotherapy. Initial performance characterization of the proof-of-concept device has produced encouraging results, and the design team is now refining the system for clinical commercialization.
Forecast for 6 months: The University of Victoria team is expected to complete the refinement of the KOALA system and conduct further testing to ensure its safety and efficacy. This could lead to the system being approved for clinical use in low- and middle-income countries within the next 6 months.
Forecast for 1 year: The KOALA system is likely to be commercially available in low- and middle-income countries within the next year, providing a much-needed solution for cancer treatment in these regions. This could lead to a significant reduction in cancer-related deaths in these countries.
Forecast for 5 years: The KOALA system is expected to become a standard treatment option for cancer patients in low- and middle-income countries within the next 5 years. This could lead to a significant improvement in cancer treatment outcomes and survival rates in these countries.
Forecast for 10 years: The KOALA system could become a model for other low-cost medical technologies, leading to a significant reduction in healthcare disparities between low- and high-income countries within the next 10 years.
