NOTTINGHAM experts are leading the way in finding a more accurate diagnosis for prostate cancer – which could save thousands of lives.
They are also confident of finding a new vaccine which could prolong the lives of patients with advanced forms of the disease.
Eight scientists are working on research in labs at the John van Geest Cancer Research Centre at Nottingham Trent University's Clifton campus.
Their work, which is costing £1.1 million, could slash the disease's death rate. It currently kills 172 men a year in Notts.
The research is in its early stages but Professor Robert Rees, director of the centre, is hoping for significant breakthroughs.
He said: "Current tests are not accurate enough. It means some people are told they may have cancer and don't, while others are being told they are fine when they may have cancer.
"We are aiming to save lives from this. An earlier and accurate diagnosis can help with this."
Currently patients showing symptoms of the disease are given a prostate specific antigen test, which has an accuracy of only around 30 per cent. Those who are believed to have cancer then go for a biopsy, even though they may not have the disease.
The new tests being developed at Nottingham Trent will test cells in blood and urine which should give much more accurate readings.
Around 200 people are expected to have taken part in the trials by the time they end in two years.
Trials for the new vaccine are also progressing, said Mr Rees.
He said: "We want to be able to prolong the lives of people who are at an advanced stage."
Hugh Gunn, of the Prostate Cancer Support Federation, has the disease himself.
"The value of the work that is being done here cannot be underestimated," he said.
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