The Algarve Hyperthermia Center was inaugurated on 14 October and is now operating at the Gambelas Hospital in Faro.
Hyperthermia treatment, despite being recently available in Portugal, has been developed in other countries for many years, with very encouraging results. It is considered to be the fourth pillar in the treatment of cancer, after surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
“In Portugal, this is the second centre to be inaugurated and we believe it is a very important step for the region and for all the patients who daily struggle with cancer disease”, the hospital said in a statement
At the Gambelas Hospital two types of equipment are available, loco-regional radiofrequency hyperthermia and whole body hyperthermia (infrared).
Both can be used on their own or in addition to traditional cancer treatments, allowing faster results.
Studies show a 60 percent improvement in the response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Loco-regional hyperthermia is indicated for the selective destruction of the tumor, especially in situations where it is necessary to reduce its size, before surgery. The session lasts approximately 60 minutes. Two non-invasive electrodes, emitting electromagnetic energy are applied.
Whole Body hyperthermia is indicated for tumors of the cervix, head and neck, lung, breast, pancreas, melanoma, bladder, rectum, prostate, oesophagus, soft tissue sarcomas and of the Central Nervous System including multi-organ metastasis.
The whole body is heated up to 43 degrees, causing a destruction of the cancer cells, which are more sensitive to heat than normal cells.
The Hospital Particular do Algarve is known for its differentiated and innovative therapies, and oncology treatment is an area that the Group has been developing for the past 6 years, with the opening of the Oncology Day Hospital at the Gambelas Hospital.
On Saturday the HPA Health Group also inaugurated a new unit in São Brás de Alportel, the Clinica Particular Siipemor, with an Emergency Department open daily with a doctor on permanent duty supported by medical specialties and radiology as well as In-Patient facilities for mental health.