Israeli Innovation Stops Brain Cancer Progression

Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive form of primary brain cancer. It spreads rapidly within the brain and leads to death in approximately 3-4 months. Current standard treatments include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation, and chemotherapy pills, but they extend patients' lives by only about two months on average.

A groundbreaking technology developed in Israel, presented at the annual conference of the World Federation of Neuro-Oncology in Switzerland, offers treatment using an electric field that extends patients' lives by preventing cancer cells from multiplying. To date, around 5,000 patients worldwide have been treated with this innovative method.

Dr. Rachel Grossman, deputy director of the neurosurgical department at Ichilov Hospital, explains that until now, the ability to extend the lives of patients with this disease was very limited. This is due to the brain's "blood-brain barrier" which protects against infections but also prevents many drug components from reaching the brain. Furthermore, the cancer often recurs and is highly genetically variable, quickly developing resistance to different treatment types. Thus, glioblastoma treatments have reached a dead end. However, this new technology, developed by Professor Yoram Palti, attacks the disease from a completely different angle.

The helmet developed by Professor Palti generates an electric field that prevents cancer cells from completing their division process, meaning they cannot grow under the electric field. Simultaneously, the electric field does not harm other brain tissues or interfere with its normal functioning. Dr. Ilon Kirson, chief scientist and head of research and development at "Novocure," the company behind the development of this new technology "Optune," states that the percentage of patients living more than two years after diagnosis has increased from 30% to 45%. Studies also indicate many patients can live with the disease for five years or more. The new technology has led to a situation where not all patients diagnosed with the disease die from it.

The helmet that creates the electric field operates on batteries and requires continuous use, as turning it off neutralizes the electric field, allowing cancer cells to grow again. Currently, the device weighs 1.4 kg and connects to the head with wires and electrodes. The treatment is local, thus side effects are mainly local – usually only skin irritation from electrode use. The device is prominently visible, but patients use hats or scarves to conceal it. Besides swimming, all activities are possible with the device, which is easily carried in a small, convenient bag. It is advised to use it for at least 18 hours a day. Patients independently change the electrodes on their head twice a week, allowing them to wash their hair during this time.

The helmet has FDA approval, and the company provides 24/7 technical support. Recently, the technology has also been introduced in Israel. Although not yet included in the national health basket, some private insurers recognize it.

Quality of Life for Patients

This unique treatment may seem strange to many patients. There is also an emotional challenge in its use because it externally exposes the fact that they have cancer. However, the helmet's numerous benefits convince most patients. Dr. Grossman reports that patients using the helmet who completed quality of life questionnaires reported better quality of life – despite the helmet's slight inconvenience. This treatment allows those with a very severe disease to enjoy an excellent quality of life, without the neurological impairments associated with other treatments.

Currently, they are exploring the helmet's potential for other cancer types. Indeed, initial clinical trials have produced positive results in other cancers, such as pancreatic, lung, ovarian, and more. Another area in development is the effort to make the device smaller and lighter to carry. Scientists are also working to make helmet use preventive for different disease types.