These days, when access to multimedia resources via the Internet is so easy to arrange, PCCN support groups are finding new ways to record and distribute information. Most groups have newsletters and regular meetings, and both are excellent for addressing the current concerns and interests of members. And many groups are also providing multimedia resources. Often, these are videos of meetings that feature talks with cutting-edge researchers and practitioners. 

If you are living with prostate cancer, you know that modern treatments enable many men with the disease to live long and healthy lives. That’s the wonderful news! The cautionary corollary is that it’s best to treat prostate cancer as a chronic condition. So once a man has been diagnosed with the disease, he should be vigilant about monitoring and maintaining his health. One important area for vigilance is bone health.

Earlier in February, Prostate Cancer Canada (PCC) announced that it would contribute up to $15 million to a new Canadian research project --- The Canadian Prostate Cancer Genome Network (CPC GENE). CPC GENE, which aims to map the genetic structure of prostate cancer, is one of 38 other research projects funded under the International Genome Consortium (ICGC). Although this genetic mapping of prostate cancer may not yield new therapies or diagnostic tools for some years, the discoveries made by CPC GENE could be key in developing the more personalized prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies of the future. One need only investigate this month’s medical news headlines to see how far-sighted and well-considered PCC’s investment in genetic research is.

A study presented at the 2011 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium suggests that dutasteride (Avodart), a drug commonly used to treat men with enlarged prostates, may also slow the growth of tumours in men who choose to have their low-risk prostate cancer monitored through active surveillance. Other data from the study indicate that dutasteride also increases adherence to active surveillance by reducing anxiety about disease progression.

In today's world of online social networking, the prostate cancer support group composed of men who meet regularly face to face may seem a bit old fashioned, even if these groups also have websites, online discussion forums, or other ways of connecting via the Internet to the broader world of prostate cancer support. But research continues to show how valuable these traditional support groups are when it comes to developing the close friendships that motivate and sustain men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.