Cabrini leads the charge in Prostate Cancer Research during awareness month
As originally published by Cabrini Health at cabrini.com.au During Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we are reminded that Cabrini stands at the forefront of ground-breaking research and treatment, offering hope to thousands of Australian men affected by this pervasive disease. Prostate cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer in Australian men, with alarming statistics: 1 in 12 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer by age 70 1 in 5 men will face a prostate cancer diagnosis in their lifetime Approximately 25,500 new cases are diagnosed in Australia each year Tragically, 10 men die each day from prostate cancer The hospital’s Department of Urology, led by the esteemed Professor Mark Frydenberg AM, treats an impressive 700 prostate cancer patients annually representing 13% of all cases in Victoria. “Our vision is clear,” states Professor Frydenberg. “We aim to improve both survival rates and quality of life for patients with prostate cancer. This involves enhancing early detection, reducing treatment side-effects, expanding options for advanced cases, minimising invasive interventions, and providing personalised care.” Cabrini’s Department of Urology is revolutionising prostate cancer research through five key pillars: Preclinical Models: The MURAL Collection, a library of patient-derived xenografts, allows researchers to replicate the diverse biology of prostate cancer in laboratory settings. Theranostics: In partnership with GenesisCare, Cabrini is pioneering the use of theranostics—a cutting-edge approach that combines diagnostics and therapeutics to precisely target cancer cells. Precision Therapies: The Cabrini Focal Therapy Database is enhancing patient selection for targeted treatments, while research into radioligand therapy aims to make this treatment accessible to more patients. Advanced Imaging: Cabrini leads in the application of MRI and PET/CT scans for improved diagnostic accuracy and treatment guidance. Machine Learning: Collaboration on projects like ArteraAI is streamlining diagnoses through sophisticated AI models, revolutionising how prostate cancer is detected and assessed. As we commemorate Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Cabrini’s work reminds us of the power of research and innovation. However, this vital endeavour relies heavily on the generosity of donors who understand that today’s investments pave the way for tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Cabrini’s Department of Urology, in partnership with Monash University BDI, are reducing the burden of prostate cancer and improving outcomes for countless Australian men and their families. Remember, early detection saves lives. This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, let’s spread the word, support cutting-edge research, and stand united in the fight against prostate cancer. Learn more about Cabrini Urology Department
Should men be screened for Prostate Cancer with a PSA Test
Professor Mark Frydenberg AM discusses the suitability of PSA-based screening for men in the detection of prostate cancer. Video Transcript I’m Mark Frydenberg, one of the urologists at Australian Urology Associates, and I wanted to discuss with you PSA-based screening for prostate cancer. In another video in our series, I’ve described what the PSA protein is and some of the possible causes of why a PSA may be elevated. It’s become a very controversial topic over the last 20 to 30 years as to whether PSA-based testing, namely, having a blood test done every one or two years, is a worthwhile thing to assist in the early detection of prostate cancer and to potentially reduce the likelihood of dying of prostate cancer. It is important to note, that the current National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines do, in fact, recommend prostate cancer testing from age 50 every two years, or earlier if you’ve got a family history. The reason for this is that there’s a very large European study that quite definitely shows around a 20 to 30 percent decreased risk of death from prostate cancer with PSA-based testing. This is very important, however it’s equally important to identify that this is not equal across all men of all ages. If we have a man that is unlikely to survive seven to ten years, in fact there is very little benefit for PSA-based testing, but for all other men, irrespective of age, if they do have an extended life expectancy, then PSA based testing is worthwhile to discuss with your general practitioner or with your urologist. Learn more about prostate cancer.
