Simulation-Based Assessment of Proton Radiography Across Energy Levels: Investigations on optimum imaging energy

Proton therapy (PT) is a highly precise radiotherapy method that significantly reduces radiation exposure to healthy tissues by [1] 30-50%, making it particularly valuable for treating tumors near critical organs. Similarly,[2] helium ion therapy has emerged as an alternative that offers even greater precision owing to the heavier mass of helium ions. However, both proton and helium ion therapies face the common challenge of accurately determining the position of the Bragg peak, where most of the energy is deposited. Precise dose distribution is necessary, as the sharp Bragg peak makes these therapies more sensitive to treatment uncertainties than conventional photon therapies.