HCG begins cancer treatment with Karnataka's first Elekta Unity MR-Linac

The technology enables treatment plans to be adapted online to account for anatomical changes between treatment sessions

HealthCare Global Enterprises (HCG), Bengaluru, has begun treating cancer patients using Karnataka's first Elekta Unity MR-Linac, bringing MR-guided adaptive radiation therapy to the state and expanding access to one of the most advanced radiation oncology technologies for patients across Karnataka and neighbouring regions.

The Elekta Unity MR-Linac integrates a 1.5 Tesla MRI scanner with a linear accelerator, allowing clinicians to visualise tumours and surrounding anatomy in real time during treatment. 

The technology enables treatment plans to be adapted online to account for anatomical changes between treatment sessions, improving precision while minimising radiation exposure to healthy tissues.

The launch comes as India's cancer burden continues to rise. According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN), the number of new cancer cases in the country is projected to reach 2.08 million by 2040, representing a 57.5% increase over 2020 levels. The growing incidence underscores the need for more personalised and precise treatment approaches.

Dr. B.S. Ajaikumar, Founder and Chairman, HealthCare Global Enterprises, said, "With this adaptive therapy, patients who qualify for the treatment will benefit immensely from radiation focused directly on the tumor, with minimal or no exposure to the surrounding healthy tissue. This gives us the opportunity to deliver the right treatment and improve outcomes with minimal or no side effects."

Dr. Manish Mattoo, Executive Director and CEO, HealthCare Global Enterprises, said, "Real-time imaging and adaptive treatment enable highly precise, personalised care while protecting healthy tissue. Combined with our multidisciplinary approach, this technology will help improve patient outcomes and expand access to advanced cancer care across Karnataka and neighbouring regions."

Welcoming the partnership, Feras Al Hasan, Head – TIMEA, Elekta, said, "We are thrilled to partner with HCG hospitals and welcome them to our global community of Unity MR-Linac users. Elekta's Unity MR-Linac ensures clinicians can accurately hit the tumor target and spare healthy tissue, even when the target moves."

Dr. John P. Christodouleas, Head of Medical Affairs and Partner Research at Elekta, added, "We are delighted to partner with HCG as they bring MR-guided online adaptive radiation therapy to patients in Karnataka. HCG's commitment to providing patients with the most advanced treatment options is exemplary and this milestone reflects their leadership in advancing precision cancer care in India.”