Andrew Bills, a man from Adelaide, feels fortunate for receiving an early diagnosis of prostate cancer at the age of 52, defying the common belief that prostate cancer affects older men. After undergoing a series of standard tests, he had surgery five months later, emphasizing the uncertainty and stress that comes with dealing with the diagnosis and treatment options.
Researchers at the University of South Australia, led by Jessica Logan, are focusing on reducing uncertainty in prostate cancer diagnosis by identifying accurate biomarkers that can help predict the progression of the cancer. Their goal is to offer low-risk patients clarity and reassurance about the appropriate treatment strategies, as around 35% of these patients may require intervention within the first two years and that number increases to 59% within five years.
Dr. Logan's research, which is supported by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, shows promise in improving treatment outcomes and quality of life for men with prostate cancer. By using tumour-based biomarkers, the research aims to identify which prostate cancers require earlier intervention, enabling more tailored and effective treatments. This advancement in technology could potentially reduce the need for invasive surgeries and provide patients with more treatment choices, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for men diagnosed with prostate cancer.