China's First Qualification for Radiation Health Testing and Evaluation of BNCT Equipment Approved

Recently, the Beijing Municipal Health Commission, in accordance with the "Administrative Measures for Radiation Health Technical Service Institutions" (Guoweiban ZhiJian Fa [2026] No. 1), organized experts to conduct on-site reviews of two qualification expansion applications submitted by the National Center for Occupational Safety and Health under the National Health Commission. The projects include "performance testing and evaluation of Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) equipment" and "thyroid iodine-131 testing".

During the review process, the expert panel conducted a comprehensive examination of the center's management system, personnel allocation, instruments and equipment, and technical capabilities related to radiation health testing and evaluation through document review, technical inquiries, on-site practical operations, and simulated demonstrations. After the review, the expert panel unanimously approved the expansion applications.

Following this approval, the National Center for Occupational Safety and Health under the National Health Commission has become the first institution in China to obtain the qualification for performance testing and evaluation of BNCT equipment, filling the gap in the field of BNCT equipment performance testing and evaluation among radiation health technical service institutions in China.

BNCT is a radiotherapy method that utilizes nuclear reactions between neutrons and boron elements within tumors, destroying cancer cells through the resulting alpha particles and lithium atomic nuclei. With its targeted deep treatment, fewer toxic side effects, and relatively low cost, BNCT is becoming a focus of attention in the field of tumor treatment both domestically and internationally. As the number of medical institutions conducting BNCT radiotherapy in China rapidly increases, the demand for testing and evaluation of radiation protection performance during treatment processes has become more urgent.