New study for men battling the side effects of prostate cancer

A study at the Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition at Deakin University is seeking men with prostate cancer to participate in a world first trial which aims to examine the benefits of a unique exercise and nutritional program on the health and quality of life of those treated for the disease.

Some men already participating in the IMPACT: Prostate Cancer, Exercise and Nutrition Study, have said it is providing them with motivation and a positive outlook in the face of the uncertainty resulting from their illness.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men in Australia, with over 20,000 new cases expected to be diagnosed in Australia in 2017. Despite these figures, survival rates of men diagnosed with prostate cancer continue to improve due to advances in both screening and treatment.

However, a treatment option for this disease, called androgen deprivation (hormone) therapy, is associated with multiple adverse effects which can accelerate the effects of ageing. This can include marked gains in fat and an increased risk for type 2 diabetes, as well as rapid bone and muscle loss, leading to an increased risk of falls and fractures. Collectively this can result in a loss of independence and quality of life.

Lead investigator, Dr Steve Fraser from the Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition at Deakin University, is now exploring an exciting and novel way to counteract the adverse effects of androgen deprivation therapy.

"We are looking for men with prostate cancer being treated with this therapy to participate in a free 12-month study that will investigate the effects of a targeted exercise program and nutritional supplementation regimen," Dr Fraser said.

"We know that exercise training can be beneficial for men with prostate cancer if it is targeted and appropriately prescribed. The IMPACT study will examine whether combining exercise training with optimal nutrition can achieve even better results.

As part of this study all participants will receive a year supply of vitamin D supplements and a thorough health assessment, including multiple bone density scans and assessments of physical function, cognitive function and cardiometabolic risk. Half of the participants will also receive a free year-long supervised exercise program and a daily nutritional supplement containing additional protein, calcium and vitamin D.

The project is a collaboration between Deakin University and Alfred Health.