Prostate cancer is a disease in which prostate cells reproduce far more rapidly than normal, forming tumours. If left untreated, these cancerous cells can invade other parts of the body. Typically affecting men over the age of 50, prostate cancer is one of the slower growing cancers, although some men have a form that can be very aggressive.


If prostate cancer is detected early, while it is still confined to the prostate gland, there is a strong chance of successful treatment with minimal or short-term side effects. However, if cancer has spread to other tissues in the body, like bone, successful treatment is more difficult. At Garvan, we’re focused on investigating improved treatment options for more aggressive and life-threatening forms of prostate cancer.


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Our researchers are working towards developing treatment options that are tailored to an individual’s cancer. Using tests for specific markers in the tissue and blood, we are finding ways to identify aggressive prostate cancer. Clinicians can use this information to determine which treatment option is most suitable for a particular patient, increasing the chances of a successful outcome while preventing unnecessary treatment. We are also researching how and why this cancer becomes resistant to therapy and identifying new treatment strategies to overcome this.

One of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Australia, typically affecting older men