15 October 2014

Researchers from the Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland based at the Translational Research Institute and the Princess Alexandra Hospital are using common treatments for Diabetes to help men suffering from prostate cancer.

They are leading a world first study using a common diabetes treatment Metformin to help men undergoing Androgen Deprivation Therapy.

Dr Handoo Rhee says that using this treatment will not only help with side effects but will also have an overall effect on the cancer survival. The research team is also studying a new form of blood test that can monitor and identify patient’s cancer cells.

“With a simple blood test we’ll be able to collect circulating tumour cells in these men and we’ll be able to determine what is happening at a molecular level” he said.

The Australian Prostate Cancer Research Centre - Queensland is currently conducting a clinical trial at the PA Hospital for this treatment.

For further information visit www.australianprostatecentre.org/clinical-trials/evaluating-the-benefits-of-metformin

The PA Research Foundation has contributed funding towards this clinical trial and raises much needed funds to help further cancer research. You can show your support and back a duck at the duck race festival next Sunday 26 October www.supporttheduck.org.au/