Prostate cancer ranks among the most common cancers, but unlike many other forms of cancer, prostate cancer cells are uniquely dependent on androgens (the hormone testosterone and its related biochemicals) for sustenance and growth. If prostate cancer cells are deprived of androgens, they die. This opens an area of effective treatment for prostate cancer called hormone therapy.

June 2011

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FOR PROSTATE CANCERHORMONE THERAPY

by Stephen Connolly

The majority of androgens (95 per cent) are produced by the testicles under the control of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. The remainder are produced by the adrenal glands. The hypothalamus, located centrally within the brain, produces Luteinising-Hormone Releasing Hormone (LHRH) which in turn stimulates the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain, to produce Luteinising Hormone (LH), which in turn stimulates the gonads (testicles) to produce the vast majority of the testosterone normally found in the body.

In 1941, Charles Huggins wrote perhaps the most influential single publication in prostate cancer, leading to the award of a Nobel Prize for medicine in 1966. He described the favourable effect of orchidectomy (the removal of the testicles) on men with metastatic prostate cancer. Orchidectomy reduces the levels of testosterone. Testosterone levels can also be reduced by the administration of medications to ‘turn-off’ testosterone

production via the HPG axis, or less commonly, by interruption of the normal biochemical pathways of testosterone synthesis. Hormone therapy has now evolved to become the mainstay of management for men with advanced prostate cancer. Surgery (to remove the prostate in its entirety) or radiation therapy are better options for men with early prostate cancer in whom a complete ‘cure’ can be achieved.

Medical practitioners managing prostate diseases frequently talk in broad terms about ‘hormone therapy’ or ‘androgen-deprivation therapy’, which also includes medications to block the downstream effects of androgens, without having any effect on testosterone levels. Examples include androgen receptor antagonists (anti-androgens, described in more detail below). Not all hormone therapy is directed at cancer, and some are more suited to benign prostate diseases such as BPH.

find us on

First, I would like to say what an honour and privilege it is to be appointed CEO

of this wonderful organisation. Over the past several years, PCFA has done

marvellous work raising awareness of prostate cancer, supporting men and their

families affected by the disease and funding research into prevention and cure,

and to improve the quality of life after diagnosis and treatment.

In my first few weeks I’ve been struck by the sheer enthusiasm, passion and

dedication of our support groups, volunteers, Board members and staff. I’ve also

been struck by the many stories of your journeys with prostate cancer – I believe

that stories are a very important part of an organisation like ours. They are both

therapeutic and inspirational.

We have some very exciting initiatives underway, such as the pilot program for

Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses and the Localised Prostate Cancer patient pack

which was recently launched at Parliament House in Canberra. You can read more

about these initiatives in this edition of Prostate News.

Much remains to be done, of course. We need to strengthen the national support

for our network of support groups; we need to further increase awareness of issues

like the importance of regular testing, of treatment options for men diagnosed with

prostate cancer and of ways to mitigate the debilitating side effects of some treatments.

We have a truly world-class research program proudly supported by Movember,

but we still need to do more to enhance the capacity in Australia to undertake high

quality prostate cancer research. We need to continue to foster young researchers

and to encourage senior researchers who are not currently studying prostate cancer

to bring innovative research proposals or new technology to the field.

Above all, we need to raise more money from the Australian community so that

we can fund and grow all these vital activities. I look forward to working with you –

our many friends and generous supporters – to achieve these outcomes.

Finally, I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to everyone in the PCFA family for

making me feel so very welcome.

DR ANTHONY LOWE

FROM THE CEO

In my first few weeks I’ve been struck by the sheer enthusiasm, passion and dedication of our support groups, volunteers, Board members and staff. I’ve also been struck by the many stories of your journeys with prostate cancer. I believe that stories are a very important part of an organisation like ours. They are both therapeutic and inspirational.

2 PROSTATE NEWS

Stephen Connolly FRCSI (Urol) Fellow in Urology, Royal Melbourne Hospital

Stephen Connolly is a consultant urologist from Ireland, with special interest in prostate cancer. He is currently on a one-year fellowship at the Royal Melbourne Hospital directed at minimally-invasive surgical techniques, including robot-assisted surgery, for prostate cancer.

NEW STAFF MEMBER:

JULIE SYKES UK-born Julie Sykes qualified as a registered nurse in 1991, working as a urology specialist nurse establishing assessment and clinical review services for men with prostate cancer, as well as providing a home visiting service that offered psychosocial and clinical support.

In 2006, Julie was employed by the WA Cancer and Palliative Care Network as a Urology Cancer Nurse Coordinator where she established a nurse-led telephone review service, in place of a conventional medical review, for men receiving radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

Julie chairs the Nurses Working Party for PCFA; is past President of the Society of Urological Nurses of WA and was state representative on the national urology nursing body executive. She established and chaired the Urological Oncology Special Interest Group for the Australia and New Zealand Urological Nurses Society.

In 2009, Julie undertook a PCFA project to map national prostate cancer services and develop a framework for practice and professional development for a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse. From February 2011, Julie has become PCFA’s National Manager of the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing program.

‘This program is an exciting and important initiative for PCFA, made possible thanks to generous funding from The Movember Foundation,’ said Julie. ‘It is an opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of those affected by prostate cancer in areas of Australia where there is currently significant unmet need.

‘As a professional nurse, I am looking forward to the challenge of working with other experts in developing a new model for prostate cancer nursing and to working with nurses in Australia to deliver this much needed new framework.’

CHAIRMAN Graeme Johnson

DEPUTY CHAIRMAN David Sandoe OAM

FINANCE DIRECTOR Chris Hall

RESEARCH CHAIRMAN Professor John Mills

MEDICAL SPECIALISTS Associate Professor Phillip Stricker Dr David Malouf

SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY CHAIRMAN David Gregory

MARKETING AND SPONSORSHIP CHAIRMAN Steve Callister

ROTARY John Palmer

STATE CHAIRMEN Tony Sonneveld OAM (NSW/ACT) Des Grogan (VIC/TAS) Jim Freemantle (WA) Jim Hughes (QLD) Professor Villis Marshall AC (SA/NT)

DIRECTOR Patricia Watson

OBSERVER Peter Gebert

NATIONAL BOARD Options for hormone therapy specific to prostate cancer can be considered in three major groupings.:

1) Surgical removal of the testicles remains the gold-standard. Although an easy procedure with almost no complications, orchidectomy has become unpopular due to the known psychological implications (similar to women undergoing breast removal surgery for breast cancer) and the irreversible nature of the procedure.

2) Medical or chemical castration, in the form of hypothalamic-targeted LHRH manipulation to ‘switch-off ’ testosterone production. Although expensive, this option has become the most popular form of hormone therapy for prostate cancer. A variety of preparations can be administered as a subcutaneous ‘depot’ injection by a general practitioner or community nurse at monthly, or more commonly, three-monthly intervals.

3) Anti-androgen therapy refers to medications which block the action of testosterone within the prostate cancer cell by interfering with the androgen receptor. The androgen receptor is located centrally within the prostate cell, and is a switch that is ‘turned-on’ by testosterone to become active. In turn, the active receptor ‘switches-on’ many different funtions within the prostate cells, causing many further changes. Anti-androgen medications are taken daily by mouth and are very popular, but not as effective as ‘castration’ if used alone. Frequently, therefore medications can be used in combination to achieve a so-called ‘maximum or complete androgen blockade’. Ongoing research is examining the strategy of intermittent hormone therapy, as a means of reducing the side effects of therapy while retaining the beneficial effects.

The goal of hormone therapy for men with advanced prostate cancer is to reduce the illnesses and complications that arise from the disease process, in a situation where complete cure is not possible. These include cancer-related bone fractures, obstruction-related urinary symptoms and kidney damage. Prostate cancer is frequently a slowly progressive condition affecting older men, who often die of another cause unrelated to the prostate cancer.

There is no conclusive evidence available at this time that hormone therapy prolongs life, but clearly it substantially improves the quality of life of sufferers. The side effects of hormone therapy such as hot-flushes, gynaecomastia (painful breast tissue enlargement), loss of libido and generalised fatigue may cause some discomfort, but life-threatening complications are exceedingly rare. It is possible to successfully treat these side effects.

The majority of advanced prostate cancers respond very effectively to hormone therapy and the beneficial effect can be sustained for many years without the need for any other intervention. Some aggressive cancers do not respond at all or stop responding after a disappointingly short time. For these patients with ‘hormone-refractory’ disease, we are conducting research which may deliver many new treatment options. ■

CONTINUED FROM COVER

PROSTATE NEWS 3

TEN-YEAR TRIAL RESULTS In spite of the increased use of PSA testing throughout the world, the diagnosis of prostate cancer at a locally-advanced stage (cancer extending beyond the prostate) remains extremely common. In Australia 5000 to 6000 men are diagnosed with locally-advanced disease each year. Locally-advanced cancers at diagnosis are very important because they cause far more deaths than cancers confined to the prostate gland when first diagnosed.

Prior to the early 1990s, recurrence of the primary cancer and the development of distant metastases were common problems following radiotherapy alone for locally-advanced prostate cancer. As a result, in the 1990s there were trials of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), either as a short-term neo-adjuvant (ADT begun before treatment by radiotherapy) or long-term adjuvant (ADT started after radiotherapy). Data from several of these trials indicated that both neo-adjuvant (NADT) and adjuvant ADT strategies improved survival.

However, continuing interest in the use of short-term NADT strategies has been fuelled by an increasing number of reports documenting serious unwanted side effects from the use of prolonged ADT. These include permanent hypogonadism (very low testosterone levels), osteoporosis, muscular atrophy, ‘metabolic syndrome’ features (weight gain, glucose intolerance/diabetes), anaemia, cognitive disturbances and depression, in addition to prolonged sexual dysfunction.

The TROG 96.01 Trial comparing radiotherapy alone with 3 and 6 months NADT (before and during radiation), to determine its optimal duration, was supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and included 802 eligible men, making it one of the largest and most highly powered of the NADT trials internationally in locally advanced prostate cancer. Conducted in Australia and New Zealand, it was also the largest treatment trial of any type of cancer ever designed and involved 19 cancer centres across the two countries.

As recently reported in Lancet Oncology (March 2011), findings from the 10-year follow-up for the TROG96.01 trial showed that when compared to radiation alone, three months NADT reduced PSA recurrence by about a third and local progression (regrowth of the primary tumour) by 50 per cent. However, it failed to reduce the incidence of distant metastases (spread of cancer to other parts of the body), or produce more than a minor (insignificant) improvement in survival.

Six months NADT, on the other hand, produced slightly greater reductions in PSA recurrence (around 43 per cent ) and local progression (around 53 per cent), More importantly, it halved distant metastases , and deaths due to prostate cancer. We found that the benefits of six months NADT were independent of age and the extent and aggressiveness of the cancer.

We also found that the side effects of NADT were rarely prolonged and usually resulted in no more than temporary inconvenience to our patients.

In summary, six months NADT is a very good treatment option for most men with locally advanced prostate cancer, particularly for the many men who are unlikely to tolerate longer durations of androgen deprivation due to age or ill health.

by Professor Jim Denham

The University of Newcastle’s Professor Jim Denham is a founding member of the Trans-Tasman Radiation Oncology Group (TROG), serving as Chairman, Honorary President and Group Coordinator. Currently he is chairman of two of its NHMRC-funded randomised trials addressing the value of different durations of androgen deprivation in conjunction with radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

The Trans-Tasman Radiation Oncology Group (TROG) is a multi-centre Australian and New Zealand trials consortium run from the University of Newcastle, NSW, along with Prostate Cancer Trials Group which manages the 96.01 trial for men with locally- advanced cancer.

4 PROSTATE NEWS

Throughout Australia, a range of nurses provide clinical care to prostate cancer patients. However, there has not been a nursing role dedicated solely to prostate cancer – until now. PCFA’s pilot program for Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses will see these nurses working in both metropolitan and regional Australia on a trial basis, with the program formally evaluated throughout. While PCFA will provide the majority of funding for the nurses, the individual nurses will be employed by the local health service.

The development of this pilot program, funded with the generous support of The Movember Foundation, is well underway. Julie Sykes (see page 3) has recently joined PCFA as National Manager of the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing

NEW PROSTATE CANCER SPECIALISTNURSING PILOT PROGRAM

Program. A framework for nursing practice and professional development has been developed which will provide the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses with structure and support to best deliver their services.

On a day-to-day basis, the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses will:

• Work within a multidisciplinary team to provide an effective nursing service for men and families impacted by a diagnosis of prostate cancer. This can be in a hospital or community setting and will continue through the entire cycle of care;

• Be an expert point of contact for the patient, providing psychosocial and clinical support;

• Assist patients to make best use of the resources available to them in the immediate community. They will also help to streamline processes when a referral to another centre is required;

• Fulfil a leadership role and be active in the education of other health professionals, as well as those individuals affected by prostate cancer;

• Participate in projects and development initiatives that aim to improve care for those affected by prostate cancer.

The program is currently in the final stages of development. Advertising for Expressions of Interest from health care providers will begin in the coming months.

Other PCFA nursing grants announced this year include the Barry Collins Nursing Internship Grant which provides funds for the successful applicant to travel and spend time in a major urological or oncology department of their choice, where they can examine and refine their nursing practice in the field of prostate cancer care.

The PCFA Nurses Education Grant also provides registered nurses from across Australia with the opportunity to advance their knowledge and skills in the field of prostate cancer nursing, by providing financial assistance to enrol in a postgraduate education program with a focus on prostate cancer nursing.

Applications for the PCFA Nurses Conference Grant have now closed. The aim of this award is to provide registered nurses across Australia with the opportunity to advance their knowledge, aptitude and skills in the field of prostate cancer nursing by providing assistance to attend the 12th National Prostate Cancer Symposium in Melbourne.

PCFA will provide regular updates on the progress of this Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing program in its newsletters and at www.prostate.org.au

PROSTATE NEWS 5

LOCALISED PROSTATE CANCER PACK FREE THROUGH PHARMACIES

It is estimated that in 2010, almost 20,000 Australian men were diagnosed with prostate cancer. At a time when men are often bewildered by the news that they have prostate cancer, they also have to make potentially life-changing decisions.

PCFA’s highly-anticipated Localised Prostate Cancer Pack was recently launched, providing important information about treatment options, side effects and the overall prostate cancer experience in one easy-to-manage pack. Funded in conjunction with The Movember Foundation, Symbion Pharmacy Services and Foster's Community Grants, the pack also provides information about support services and helps patients track medical appointments and expenses, as well as thoughts and feelings throughout the prostate cancer experience.

Now available free through pharmacies, each Localised Prostate Cancer Pack contains books on Localised Prostate Cancer: A Guide for Men and Their Families, What Women (and Their Men) Need to Know About Prostate Cancer and Maintaining Your Wellbeing, as well as pamphlets and booklets on Coping with a Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer, What Every Man Should Know, Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises for Men, Continence and Prostate: A Guide for Men Undergoing Prostate Surgery, TreatED Prostate Edition, Sex After Treatment, Prostate Cancer and Prostate Cancer, Anxiety and Depression and the DVD So, I have Prostate Cancer, What Now? There is also a user guide, prostate cancer personal organiser and evaluation form.

PCFA CEO, Dr Anthony Lowe, said that pharmacies were chosen as the preferred distribution point for the Localised

Prostate Cancer Packs, as pharmacists are a respected source of information and advice in local communities.

‘Often, pharmacists are more easily accessible than other health professionals, particularly in rural areas of Australia. In fact, it is often the case that patients diagnosed with prostate cancer have more contact with their local pharmacist than with their specialist, or even GP. To establish a relationship with their pharmacist at this early stage is important.

‘Distributing the Localised Prostate Cancer Packs through local pharmacies is one way of making the stages of diagnosis and early treatment of prostate cancer a little easier.’

Upon diagnosis, patients will be given a ‘voucher’ that they then present at a participating pharmacy to redeem their Localised Prostate Cancer Pack. Currently, 2,500 Symbion Pharmacy Services account holders are participating in this scheme. Other pharmacies interested in participating can also do so by calling Symbion Customer Service on 1300 772 000 to order a pack.

‘This is an exciting and much-needed resource for the thousands of Australian men diagnosed with prostate cancer each year. We expect that this new Localised Prostate Cancer Pack will provide real, practical benefits to those newly diagnosed men and their loved ones, and we look forward to working with Australian pharmacies to deliver these benefits,’ said Dr Lowe.

For more information about the Localised Prostate Cancer Pack, please call PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.

6 PROSTATE NEWS

PROSTATE NEWS 7

PCFA WELCOMES NEW CEODR ANTHONY LOWE PCFA extends a warm welcome to its new CEO, Dr Anthony Lowe. Dr Lowe joins PCFA at a time of significant developments, including new service and resource offerings for Australian men diagnosed with prostate cancer, as well as health professionals.

Dr Lowe is currently making his way around the country, meeting PCFA personnel and various stakeholders. Some Victorian-based supporters and support group representatives had the opportunity to welcome Anthony in person at the Victoria and Tasmania Thank You event, held in late March at the MCG.

‘I feel privileged to be CEO of such a prestigious organisation and to be part of a team that contributes so much to improving the lives of Australian men diagnosed with prostate cancer,’ said Dr Lowe. ‘I have come on board at an exciting time and I am keen to lead PCFA into its next phase of development.’

Prior to joining PCFA, Anthony was Chief Operating Officer and Company Secretary at National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), where he implemented online registration and social network fundraising for NBCF’s Pink Ribbon breakfast campaign; new customer relationship management and website content management systems; a data driven approach to NBCF’s direct mail program and new financial reporting, resulting in NBCF being a finalist in the PwC Transparency Awards in all three years since inception.

He led a team to design and implement a website and customer relationship management system for Register4 (www.register4.org.au), Australia’s first online community for volunteer breast cancer research participants.

He also restructured NBCF’s investment portfolio, resulting in a reduction in investment fees and reduced investment risk.

Prior to joining NBCF, Anthony held senior executive positions in the financial services industry in Australia, the USA and UK, ultimately becoming an Executive Director and Asia Pacific business group leader for Mercer Wealth Solutions. Mercer Wealth Solutions provides superannuation solutions and financial advice to Mercer’s corporate and private clients.

Anthony is a business leader with a strong track record of developing business strategy, driving revenue growth and

implementing change to build organisational capacity and improve operational outcomes and profitability.

PCFA National Chairman, Graeme Johnson, said PCFA will rely heavily on Dr Lowe’s leadership to ensure prostate cancer and those affected by it continue to receive vital resources, support and government assistance.

‘PCFA is privileged to have the experience and expertise that Dr Lowe brings to the position of CEO, particularly during this time of expansion and vital development,’ he said.

Anthony Lowe replaces Andrew Giles who was PCFA’s CEO for more than six and a half years. During this time, PCFA has experienced enormous growth in terms of capacity, revenue and presence in the areas of research, support and awareness. PCFA’s National Board thanks Andrew Giles for his tireless efforts and commitment to improving outcomes for all Australians impacted by prostate cancer, and wishes him well in his new endeavours.

PROSTATE NEWS 7

SURVIVING CHRISTCHURCH

PCFA National Chairman Graeme Johnson, Deputy National Chairman David Sandoe OAM and his wife Pam Sandoe OAM were representing PCFA at the USANZ Conference in Christchurch when the earthquake hit. Here, they recall their harrowing experiences.

We were manning PCFA’s display booth in the Exhibition Hall at the Christchurch Convention Centre, which was starting to fill with delegates heading in for lunch when the earthquake hit. The shaking lasted for about 45-50 seconds and as soon as it stopped, we ran out of the building. As we left, we saw that the PCFA display stand had all but disappeared and that there was broken glass and fallen exhibits throughout the exhibition hall.

Having made it out of the building, our thoughts turned to ringing our families and reassuring them that we were okay. It’s probably the only time in our lives when we have said, ‘Thank God for the mobile phone!’. At the time of writing, all our belongings, apart from the clothes we were wearing, mobile phones, wallets and our conference satchels, remain in our rooms at the Crowne Plaza.

The gathering crowd was evacuated to Hagley Park, where we were lucky enough to be approached by two brothers – Peter and Mark Maynard. They were out looking for Mark’s wife, Kelly who worked in the CBD, when they came across the crowd of ‘refugees’ huddled in the park. The brothers asked if we would like a room for the night, and that between different family members, they could accommodate five. So, we headed off, grateful for the hospitality of these strangers.

That the Maynard and Ryley families would look after five ‘randoms’ in such magnificent fashion, given the fact that

they had a wife/sister-in-law missing in the CBD, was nothing short of incredible. We couldn't thank them enough and their consistent response was, ‘We ANZACs have to stick together’.

Sadly, Mark’s wife Kelly lost her life in the earthquake. Kelly was a mother of two young daughters, and the day of the earthquake was only her fourth day at a new job, having just returned from maternity leave. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kelly and Mark’s family and loved ones.

The following day can only be described as long and frustrating as we tried to negotiate a bureaucratic minefield in order to leave Christchurch. It was 7.30pm when we found ourselves on a RAAF Hercules, bound for Richmond Air Base, Sydney. We were tired, smelly, and so relieved to be heading home.

Reflecting on the experience, Graeme recognises how lucky he was to have gone through this with people he knew. Graeme, David and Pam made an agreement almost straight away to stick together throughout the crisis, and in hindsight, Graeme says this was the best decision they could have made.

‘I realise now that, had I been on my own, I probably would have panicked and Pam and David told me they feel the same way – it was a team effort, and one that we will never forget,’ Graeme said.

Pam and David Sandoe, heading home in the RAAF Hercules.

After Earthquake

Before Earthquake

8 PROSTATE NEWS

On 13 March 2011, the tenth Ord Minnett Harbour Swim Classic drew more than 1000 swimmers for Australia's premier harbour swim event. A line up of Australia's finest swimmers – both current and legends – presented for the charity swim with one of PCFA’s teams (Matt Abood, Graeme Brewer and Don Boland) taking out first prize with a bonus cheque for PCFA. Swimmers supported PCFA through registering at www.everydayhero.com.au and www.gofundraise.com.au – a simple way to have fun and raise funds for the fight against prostate cancer.

Graeme and Margie Postlewaite of the SAN support group provided valuable assistance at PCFA's marquee.

Across Australia on 10 April, some 4000 people tried to catch a fish to help fight prostate cancer. Beginning at 6am, anglers took part in the Pirtek Fishing Challenge, seeking to catch a breed of fish allocated for their area. NSW anglers were on the lookout for bream, flathead and whiting, while those on the Murray-Darling Basin were aiming for golden perch and European carp. The winners of the fundraising competition were set to take home close to $140,000 in cash and prizes, making it the richest national fishing competition open to the public. PCFA is very grateful to Pirtek for its ongoing support in creating this event which has become a fundraising landmark on the PCFA calendar.

PCFA Patron, Her Excellency, Professor Marie Bashir AV CVO, Governor of New South Wales assisted with hosting PCFA’s NSW Thank You on 23 March at Sydney's spectacular Government House. At the event, Her Excellency, Sir Nicholas Shehadie, PCFA National Chairman Graeme Johnson and NSW State Chairman Tony Sonneveld OAM acknowledged the significant support of those individuals, community and corporate groups who contribute to the fight against prostate cancer in NSW. PCFA was also thrilled to present Honorary Women's Awards to Pam Sandoe OAM, Gabrielle Moran and Trish Bartlett for their work in supporting their groups and providing help and assistance to those affected by prostate cancer in their communities. Lindsay May was presented with the inaugural PCFA Award, and Jim O’Ryan was presented with Honorary Life Membership. More information about these award recipients can be found at www.prostrate.org.au.

On 12 April, PCFA CEO Dr Anthony Lowe with staff Kylie Ironside, Kylie Sherwood-Kelly and Wendy Farrow flew the PCFA colours with hundreds of researchers in Belmore Park in Sydney to show support for Australia's medical research community, and to voice opposition for the Government's proposed cuts to research funding.

NSW

Celebrity swimmers at the 10th Ord Minnett Harbour Swim Classic, March 2011.

Rugby League legend Andrew ‘ET’ Ettingshausen with Frank Toa, winner of the ‘Fish with ET and Guesty’ prize draw.

Back row: Colin Bartlett, Alan Moran, David Sandoe OAM. Front row: Her Excellency, Trish Bartlett, Graeme Johnson, Gabrielle Moran, Pam Sandoe OAM

PCFA staff attend Sydney rally against cuts to research funding. Left to right Kylie Sherwood-Kelly, Wendy Farrow and Dr Anthony Lowe.

ORD MINNETT SYDNEY HARBOUR SWIM CLASSIC

PIRTEK FISHING CHALLENGE

PCFA AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE

PCFA SUPPORTING FUNDING FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH

PROSTATE NEWS 9

VIC

On 31 March, PCFA hosted a cocktail party at the MCG to acknowledge and thank the many groups and organisations who support the Foundation in so many different ways.

National Chairman Graeme Johnson welcomed guests, including community fundraising groups, corporate supporters, community partners, friends of PCFA and our great benefactor, Movember.

Dr Renea Taylor, a Research Fellow at Monash University’s Prostate & Breast Cancer Research Group spoke of her work in investigating the role of stem cells and their environment in the onset of prostate cancer and the importance of the funding Movember provides to allow her to continue with her work.

PCFA Victoria Manager, David Rhodes, acknowledged and thanked the various groups and organisations who have supported PCFA to help grow its presence in Victoria and Tasmania. These included John Preston and members of the Chapter Council and Victorian Chairman Des Grogan and members of the Victorian Board.

PCFA National Chairman Graeme Johnson and Des Grogan presented certificates of appreciation to groups including Shepparton’s Biggest Ever Blokes BBQ represented by Don McCaffrey and Bendigo’s Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch, represented by Peter Chapman and Jess Hourigan; The Charity

Boys, represented by Aldo Angelucci, Laurie Vescio, Americano Giandomenico, Robert Troiani and Lou Mercuri; The Male Bag riders, represented by Tony Hynes, Neil Weatherson, Mark Williams and Ken Grenfell; and The Postie Bag ride, represented by John Loader and Stuart Barnes.

A special presentation was made to the Horizon Committee from Echuca who have run the Murray Meander for the last six years. The Murray Meander is a ride in a ‘tinnie’ down the Murray River. This year the Meander was from Mildura to Golwah in South Australia, over a week, with more than 100 boats taking part. Funds raised are shared between PCFA and the Otis Foundation in Bendigo.

Graeme Johnson also welcomed new PCFA CEO, Dr Anthony Lowe, presenting him with a PCFA tie from one of our great supporters, Tim Cecil from Henry Buck’s .

PCFA sincerely thanks all of its generous supporters for recognising the importance of prostate cancer and the vital role PCFA plays in providing support, funding research and raising much-needed awareness. We still have a long way to go, but with your ongoing support, we can continue to lead the fight against this devastating disease.

We are especially grateful to the Melbourne Cricket Ground for providing the wonderful Jim Stynes room for the event, with great views of the hallowed ground.

THANK YOU!

The Horizon Committee presents PCFA National Chairman Graeme Johnson with the proceeds from the Murray Meander. Left to Right Des Grogan, PCFA National Chairman Graeme Johnson, Garet Strebaus and Dick Phillips from the Horizon Committee (organisers of the Murray Meander).

10 PROSTATE NEWS

The thrill of doing something different, exciting and a little bit adventurous, drives us all. In recent times PCFA has been supported by a number of groups conducting adventure-based fundraising and some of the most challenging events have been cycle-based.

Without doubt, in Queensland, a cyclist’s rite of passage is to descend and ascend the world renowned Great Dividing Range. Known as Ride the Range, this Rotary Club of Toowoomba event was postponed due to the devastating Queensland floods and held on 15 May.

For the rider, the swift descent, if you had time to look, offered stunning views over the countryside. The terror eased once riders reached the bottom and cycled amongst the creek flats and country hills. This was a chance to view the spectacular Lockyer Valley before the challenge of the long, hard ascent back to Toowoomba.

Volunteers from the local Prostate Cancer Support Group and the Queensland office staffed PCFA's booth at the start/finish line, providing information on the benefits of early detection. Funds raised will be donated to PCFA and Rotary Toowoomba’s local charity projects.

On the same day, Friday Warriors, in conjunction with the Burleigh Apex Club, held their annual Pedal for Prostate charity cycle ride. Now in its second year, the ride proved just as popular as its inaugural outing.

Friday Warriors are based on the Gold Coast and founded by Sam Stewart – New Zealand Rugby League International and NRL Newcastle Knights legend. Friday Warriors are men who like to challenge themselves in sports and other areas. They can be seen regularly, training along Gold Coast beaches. Look out for the ‘Never Give Up’ motto on their training shirts.

Local PCSG volunteers and PCFA Queensland staff were at PCFA's booth and PCFA community speaker, Rob Stirling, himself no stranger to hard training, addressed the crowd.

ADVENTURE-BASED FUNDRAISING

MICK SCHINKEL AND THE RUMBLE RIDERS

QLD

Tex and Bundy (the Wonder Dog) on an old-timer’s bike, with Mick Schinkel on the right (in red) and Graeme Higgs on the left (in white).

Most people will be affected by prostate cancer. Perhaps not by battling the disease themselves, but by knowing someone who has been, or is still on that journey.

So what can you do about this? Well if you ride a motorcycle, you can invite your friends to go for a ride and raise money to help fight the disease – just like PCFA's long-term friends, the Rumble Riders.

The Rumble Ride is aimed at enticing motorcyclists to leave from all over Australia and meet up at towns along the way to their final destination. On the way, their aim is to raise money and awareness for PCFA, while having a very good time.

Now in its fourth year, the ride is part of PCFA's annual fundraising, with champions Tex and Bundy the Wonder Dog as regular participants. Another regular, PCFA Queensland Manager Graeme Higgs, drives the back-up vehicle supplied by Isuzu Ute Australia. Battered by floods, this year’s Rumble was shortened to a gathering in Barcaldine during Easter.

The Rumble Ride is organised by Sandie Jansen and Mick Schinkel, who is still recovering from a serious accident in February. With a plate and two pins in his ankle, four broken ribs and a punctured lung, Mick wasn’t up to riding this year and settled for being chauffeur-driven. Maybe, just maybe, he’ll have a new bike in time for next year’s Ride to Broome.

Chasing adventure in a good cause. Left to right: Jason Mahoney (Burleigh Apex Club), Jason Devoogd (Friday Warriors), PCFA Queensland Manager Graeme Higgs, Andy Savage and Tim Allwood (Friday Warriors).

PROSTATE NEWS 11

SA

Literally hundreds of barbecues were held during SA’s Biggest Sausage Sizzle over four days from 7 to 10 April 2011. The campaign, which was launched with a barbecue in Victoria Square hosted by National Pharmacies, SAFM and Channel 7, aimed to raise awareness of men’s health issues, especially prostate, bowel and testicular cancer.

The aim was to promote awareness of these insidious, but treatable cancers, while having some fun and raising valuable funds for cancer research.

The chefs cooking up a storm in Victoria Square were SAFM’s brekky team – Craig, Haley and Rabbit, Channel 7’s Mark Soderstrom and Port Power player Jay Schultz. Hundreds of people came out to enjoy the sunshine and support the cause. This launch barbecue saw the start of a four-day sausage sizzle frenzy, with barbecues at work, in the home, at sporting venues, markets, pubs, hospitals and sporting clubs – just to name a few.

Along with the promotion of men’s health issues, almost $25,000 was raised through the sale of barbecue kits (including registration) at National Pharmacies. Customers also assisted with fundraising by purchasing PCFA pins.

Talented South Australian designer, Melinda Parent created the look for the campaign, including the television commercial and the barbecue characters – Mr Bread, Mr Onion, Mr Sauce and Mr Mustard. PCFA's South Australian Board wishes to thank not only Melinda, but National Pharmacies, SAFM and Channel 7 for their generosity and support!

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR PAMELA SYKES, FLINDERS UNIVERSITY AND MEDICAL CENTRE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA Associate Professor Pamela Sykes has taught and researched in the area of molecular genetics in Australia and the USA for 25 years. She has been Department Head of the Flinders Medical Centre site of Molecular Pathology in SA Pathology.

Recently Pamela was appointed Professor of Preventive Cancer Biology, Haematology and Genetic Pathology at Flinders University and Medical Centre. She is also on state and national committees for radiation protection and she is an Associate Editor for the journal, Radiation Research.

Associate Professor Sykes’ current research is focused on studying the protective role of low-dose radiation which is funded by the US Department of Energy Low Dose Radiation Program, Flinders Medical Centre Foundation and now, PCFA. She has published more than 120 peer reviewed papers and has written numerous book chapters and reviews.

Low doses of radiation have been demonstrated to slow cancer growth in some blood cancers in animal studies. Associate Professor Sykes' PCFA project aims to use low doses of radiation to prevent, or at least slow cancer formation in animals prone to prostate cancer. Identification of the key molecules involved in this low-dose radiation induced protective mechanism could provide new anti-tumour drugs for the prevention of prostate cancer.

SA’S BIGGEST SAUSAGE SIZZLE SUCCESS!

MEET A PCFA RESEARCHER

Each year, thanks to the generosity of Movember, PCFA is able to fund many worthwhile prostate cancer research projects, run by world-class Australian researchers. In this issue of Prostate News, we introduce you to one such researcher.

12 PROSTATE NEWS

PCFA NSW Manager, Wendy Farrow with the BTBA Challenge team.

MATES HIT THE ROAD FOR MEN’S HEALTH

A group of mates from Manjimup, WA, recently set out on an adventure that proved to be the greatest physical challenge they had ever faced. In doing so, they raised around $58,000 for men’s health – to be shared between PCFA and The Regional Men’s Health Initiative. Along the way, they also raised vital awareness about men’s health issues in these regional areas.

The Mates 500 Relay began on 22 March in Nannup and made its way through Manjimup, Pemberton, Northcliffe, Quinninup, Rocky Gully, Frankland, Boyup Brook/Cranbrook crossroads, and Kojonup. The relay then headed back to Manjimup, where the six mates, Paul Omodei, Heath East, Anthony Stubberfield, Tim Lyster, Mat Johnston and Wayne Barnden crossed the finish line on 25 March.

The mates have been involved in the coaching of the Lower South West Football League’s Landmark Country Football Championships team for the past three years. New coach for the 2011 Championships, Paul Omodei, was looking for a way to inspire the very best players from the League to make themselves available for next year’s team. So, he turned his

attention to spreading the word to players, as well as raising funds for charity and helping to promote an important health message to men in rural WA.

Men in rural and regional Australia are estimated to have a 21 per cent higher prostate cancer mortality rate than men in capital cities. PCFA CEO, Dr Anthony Lowe, says that, with this disturbing statistic in mind, the importance of events like the Mates 500 Relay becomes clear.

‘The funds raised by the Mates 500 Relay will go a long way in helping PCFA continue its work funding vital research, raising awareness and providing support to those diagnosed with prostate cancer and their loved ones. Yet, this event has had a much greater impact than raising much-needed funds,' said Dr Lowe.

‘The Mates 500 Relay also played an important role in raising awareness about men’s health, and the need to be proactive about your health in rural and regional Australia. We hope that seeing these fit, healthy guys running through rural towns and talking about health issues will encourage more men to visit their doctor regularly.’

‘In particular, we encourage all men aged 50 and over to speak with their doctor annually about prostate cancer and, if necessary, be tested. If there is a family history of prostate cancer, men aged 40 and over should speak with their doctor annually and discuss the need for testing.’

‘PCFA sincerely thanks all those involved in The Mates 500 Relay, as well as those who supported them on their journey. You have made a real difference in the fight against prostate cancer.’

WA

The six ‘Mates’ crossing the finish line together in the town centre of Manjimup. Left to right: Paul Omodei, Wayne Barnden, Heath East, Mat Johnston, Anthony Stubberfield and Tim Lyster.

PROSTATE NEWS 13

At the SAC conference in Adelaide, chairman David Gregory said the year had seen significant change for the network and more was coming. Part of that change was being driven by SAC itself, as it recognised that PCFA's advocacy role had been largely neglected. As a result, there is a move towards working closely with PCFA's national office as it lobbies and advocates for those diagnosed with prostate cancer in the year ahead.

‘SAC took steps to join with other organisations in our support and advocacy efforts and is building representation and collaboration with fellow-travellers,’ David said. ‘These include Cancer Australia, Cancer Voices, Cancer Councils around the country, the National Rural Health Alliance, Consumers Health Forum, Self-Funded Retirees Association, Seniors Australia and others.’

We will also be working with PCFA's national office as it lobbies for Patient Assisted Travel Schemes, MBS and PBS Funding for prostate cancer treatments and procedures, increased government awareness of prostate cancer and its impact on the community.

At the NSW/ACT Chapter conference in Canberra, chairman Terry Wheeler highlighted the year’s achievements, including producing new affiliation guidelines (now with SAC for consideration) and reviewing the Chapter’s strategic plan; reviewing guidelines for the creation of new Support Groups and creating new Support Groups in Cooma, Cessnock, Port Macquarie and Singleton; and working with existing Support Groups to improve communications via teleconferences and the PCFA Support Group website and provide advice. DVDs of speakers will be distributed to remote Support Groups.

The Chapter Council meets bi-monthly, holds meetings in regional areas and supports councillors making regular contact with allocated Support Groups. It also provides a voice for Support Group interests in working with PCFA and SAC and works to enhance cooperation between the Chapter Council and SAC.

Terry Wheeler thanked all the volunteers who work to maintain the Support Groups and PCFA office holders. ‘Without your efforts we would not be able to continue with our work,’ he said.

SUPPORT GROUPSIn rapid succession the support group network has held its Support and Advocacy Committee (SAC), NSW/ACT Chapter and Queensland Chapter annual conferences in Adelaide, Canberra and Brisbane.

Delegates at the NSW/ACT Chapter conference in Canberra.

14 PROSTATE NEWS

We all feel anxious from time to time, and research indicates that men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer may be more likely to experience an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety is a normal reaction to a high-pressure situation, but if you experience similar symptoms persistently or intensely without justification, it could be a sign of an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety can be debilitating, it can cause a great deal of anguish for those experiencing it and prevent them from functioning well and living a normal life.

Every anxiety disorder is different, but most generally involve unrelenting feelings of tension, distress or nervousness. A person may avoid, or grudgingly endure, situations which cause these types of feelings.

Not only can an anxiety disorder affect the person experiencing the illness, but it can also start to affect relationships with family members and friends. Untreated anxiety disorders can lead to marriage and family problems, financial difficulties, job loss, drug and alcohol abuse and in extreme cases, self-harm.

Anxiety disorders are manageable with the right treatment. Psychological treatments have been proven to be very effective and medication is also used to treat some anxiety disorders.

The beyondblue website www.beyondblue.org.au has a comprehensive section on anxiety disorders, including anxiety checklists to fill out. Or you can order free information by calling the beyondblue information line on 1300 22 4636 (local call cost from a landline). This includes fact sheets on specific anxiety disorders.

ANXIETY: MORE

COMMON THAN YOU MAY THINK

INDEPENDENCE AUSTRALIA SUPPORTS THOSE LIVING WITH PROSTATE CANCERAround four million people living in Australia experience incontinence and approximately 20 per cent are male. In 2010, almost 20,000 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer, many experiencing urinary incontinence, especially in the first few months post surgery. However, under-reporting is very high with an estimated 50-80 per cent of those with incontinence finding it difficult to discuss their condition with a health care professional.

Independence Australia is a national, not-for-profit provider of health and well being products, with over 30 years’ experience helping people with continence care. Since 2006, we have worked in partnership with PCFA to provide specialist continence product advice and support to patients with prostate cancer. Our Urology Continence Nurse Advisor provides free professional advice and can answer your questions related to continence products.

Independence Australia is proud to support PCFA initiatives targeted at raising awareness about prostate cancer, by providing information about continence products at PCFA events throughout Australia.

Independence Australia also coordinates free educational expos nationally, where health care professionals have access to the latest information relating to continence and other health care products.

These are usually attended by PCFA as we work together to assist in the better management of incontinence and improve the quality of life for all those living with prostate cancer.

See our ‘Products for the Active Man’ brochure at http://www.independenceaustralia.com/health-solutions/products-services/download-catalogues/

If you require a hard copy please contact us T 1300 788 855, E customerservice@independenceaustralia.com

For more information visit our website www.independenceaustralia.com

ASK THE NURSEIf you need advice on continence product choice and usage, please contact the Independence Australia Urology Continence Nurse Advisor on: 1300 788 855 or email askthenurse@independenceaustralia.com

Need Advice?

16 PROSTATE NEWS

I want to help find a cure for prostate cancer.Please find enclosed my donation of $Name:

Address:

Postcode: Phone: ( ) Email

Please send me, in confidence, information on how I can help Prostate

Cancer Foundation of Australia through my will.

I have already included Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia in my will.

All donations $2 and over are tax deductible Please mail to: PCFA PO Box 1332, Lane Cove NSW 1595

Please make your

Cheque Money order

payable to Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia OR

Please debit my

VISA MASTERCARD AMEX DINERS

Card Number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Expiry: _ _ / _ _

Signature

For more information about prostate cancer and PCFA, please call 1800 22 00 99, or visit www.prostate.org.au

✁

Thank you for your support

PCFAUPCOMING EVENTS

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR DONORS, PARTNERS AND SPONSORS FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT

MEN’S HEALTH PARTNERMOVEMBER FOUNDATION

BLUE DIAMONDPARTNERS

SAPPHIREPARTNERS

PLATINUMPARTNERS

GOLDPARTNERS

ABBOTT AUSTRALASIA

ASTRA ZENECA

BUNNINGS WAREHOUSE

EAT MEDIA

ELI LILLY

FARMOZ

SANOFI AVENTIS

SHELL

SILVER PARTNERS ANGOVE FAMILY WINE MAKERS • VOLLEY • WIN TELEVISION • CRUST • SIMSON GREETING CARDS • MYER • MITCHELL’S MEDIA GROUP

TOPAZ PARTNERSAMERICAN MEDICAL SYSTEMS • CHARITY GREETING CARDS • FOSTER’S GROUP • GRAY-NICOLLS SPORTS

• HARLEY DAVIDSON • HOYTS • NATIONAL BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION • SCARBOROUGH WINE CO. • WALKINSHAW • ATTERIS

MAJOR PARTNERCOMMONWEALTH BANK

Matrix for PNEWS Jan 2011.indd 1 5/13/2011 2:09:12 PM

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR DONORS, PARTNERS AND SPONSORS FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT

MEN’S HEALTH PARTNERMOVEMBER FOUNDATION

BLUE DIAMONDPARTNERS

SAPPHIREPARTNERS

PLATINUMPARTNERS

GOLDPARTNERS

ABBOTT AUSTRALASIA

ASTRA ZENECA

BUNNINGS WAREHOUSE

EAT MEDIA

ELI LILLY

FARMOZ

SANOFI AVENTIS

SHELL

SILVER PARTNERS ANGOVE FAMILY WINE MAKERS • VOLLEY • WIN TELEVISION • CRUST • SIMSON GREETING CARDS • MYER • MITCHELL’S MEDIA GROUP

TOPAZ PARTNERSAMERICAN MEDICAL SYSTEMS • CHARITY GREETING CARDS • FOSTER’S GROUP • GRAY-NICOLLS SPORTS

• HARLEY DAVIDSON • HOYTS • NATIONAL BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION • SCARBOROUGH WINE CO. • WALKINSHAW • ATTERIS

MAJOR PARTNERCOMMONWEALTH BANK

Matrix for PNEWS Jan 2011.indd 1 5/13/2011 2:09:12 PM

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR DONORS, PARTNERS AND SPONSORS FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT

MEN’S HEALTH PARTNERMOVEMBER FOUNDATION

BLUE DIAMONDPARTNERS

SAPPHIREPARTNERS

PLATINUMPARTNERS

GOLDPARTNERS

ABBOTT AUSTRALASIA

ASTRA ZENECA

BUNNINGS WAREHOUSE

EAT MEDIA

ELI LILLY

FARMOZ

SANOFI AVENTIS

SHELL

SILVER PARTNERS ANGOVE FAMILY WINE MAKERS • VOLLEY • WIN TELEVISION • CRUST • SIMSON GREETING CARDS • MYER • MITCHELL’S MEDIA GROUP

TOPAZ PARTNERSAMERICAN MEDICAL SYSTEMS • CHARITY GREETING CARDS • FOSTER’S GROUP • GRAY-NICOLLS SPORTS

• HARLEY DAVIDSON • HOYTS • NATIONAL BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION • SCARBOROUGH WINE CO. • WALKINSHAW • ATTERIS

MAJOR PARTNERCOMMONWEALTH BANK

Matrix for PNEWS Jan 2011.indd 1 5/13/2011 2:09:12 PM

For details about these events, visit the ‘What's Happening’ page at www.prostate.org.au

JUNE 11 Adonis Society Gentleman’s Ball QLD

13-19 International Men’s Health Week National

18 Castle Hill Country Club Trivia Fundraiser NSW

18 Maitland vs Newcastle Rugby Union match NSW

JULY 17 Guinness World Record Attempt at MattressDominoes (Bundaberg) QLD

17-19 Bay to Bermagui Vintage Car and Bike Rally NSW

AUGUST TBC City 2 Surf NSW

19-21 Port Bike Rally – Triumph Enthusiasts NSW

24-25 Dowerin Field Day WA

25 Innkeepers Mystery Run and BBQ NSW

28 City to Surf WA

29 Corporate Luncheon WA