LOUVAIN-LA-NEUVE, Belgium, June 8, 2026
IBA (Ion Beam Applications), a global leader in particle accelerator technology and proton therapy solutions, announced the signing of a contract with Duke University Health System for the installation of two Proteus®ONE proton therapy systems at the future Duke Proton Center in Durham, North Carolina. The agreement marks a significant expansion of proton therapy capabilities in the United States and reinforces the growing adoption of advanced radiation technologies designed to improve cancer treatment precision while reducing damage to healthy tissues.
Duke Proton Center to Expand Advanced Cancer Care
Under the agreement, IBA will supply two Proteus®ONE compact proton therapy solutions that will be installed side-by-side to maximize operational efficiency, clinical availability, and patient throughput. The Duke Proton Center is expected to begin treating patients in 2029, bringing advanced proton therapy access to patients across North Carolina and the surrounding region. The installation is intended to support Duke Health’s long-term strategy of expanding access to highly targeted cancer treatments while strengthening its position as a leading academic medical center.
Proteus®ONE Delivers Flexible and Advanced Proton Therapy
Proteus®ONE is IBA’s market-leading compact proton therapy platform, designed to deliver highly precise radiation treatment while continuously integrating new technological innovations. The system allows healthcare providers to adapt to evolving clinical requirements and benefit from future advancements in proton therapy. The contract also includes a long-term operations and maintenance agreement, ensuring ongoing technical support and system performance throughout the lifecycle of the installation. The typical end-user value of a single Proteus®ONE system, including a multi-year service agreement, ranges between $45 million and $55 million.
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Strengthening Proton Therapy Leadership in the United States
The partnership further expands IBA’s global proton therapy footprint and highlights continued investment in advanced oncology infrastructure across major healthcare institutions. Duke Health expects the new center to provide patients with access to one of the most precise forms of radiation therapy available today, helping reduce treatment-related side effects while maintaining effectiveness against a wide range of cancers. The project is also expected to contribute to research, education, and innovation in radiation oncology, supporting future advancements in proton therapy applications.
Growing Demand for Precision Radiation Treatment
Proton therapy continues to gain momentum worldwide as healthcare providers seek more targeted cancer treatment options. By leveraging the unique physical properties of proton beams, the technology enables clinicians to deliver radiation directly to tumors while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy organs and tissues. The Duke Proton Center will serve as a regional reference center for proton therapy, supporting improved patient access and strengthening the role of precision medicine in cancer care. The agreement underscores IBA’s commitment to expanding access to advanced proton therapy technologies and supporting the next generation of cancer treatment solutions.
Source: IBA, press release
