For patients with advanced prostate cancer who are no longer responding to hormone therapy, the options for treatment are limited. A new clinical trial currently underway at the BC Cancer Agency will test whether the addition of a high-dose vitamin D can improve chemotherapy results.

The vitamin D, a biologically active form called "calcitriol," is being given along with chemotherapy drug docetaxel, a drug already in use at the BC Cancer Agency. The study aims to determine whether the addition of the high-dose calcitriol can improve the anti-cancer effect of docetaxel. Previous studies suggest that adding calcitriol to doecetaxel can substantially reduce men's PSA levels.

This North American multi-centre trial is being led in Vancouver by Dr. Kim Chi. The study is open to patients whose prostate cancer has spread and progressed despite hormone treatment. This study is double blind – with half the participants receiving a placebo, and the other half calcitriol.

Prostate cancer that progresses despite hormonal therapy is called androgen independent or hormone refractory prostate cancer. At this stage in the disease, the cancer has generally spread to the bone. A number of chemotherapeutic agents have shown some activity and can improve symptoms, but none have been shown to prolong survival. Approximately 2,700 men in B.C. will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2003, and about 550 will die.

While the investigational drug being tested is not considered to be a potential cure, ideally, says Dr. Chi, the treatment will ultimately be shown to extend life and improve the symptoms of metastatic prostate cancer.

"The treatment options for men with hormone refractory prostate cancer are limited, so clinical trials are the only way to find new treatments," explains Dr. Chi. "We have a very strong clinical trials program for prostate cancer, which offers our patients access to leading new therapies."

The BC Cancer Agency, a part of the Provincial Health Services Authority, is committed to reducing the incidence of cancer, reducing the mortality from cancer, and improving the quality of life of those living with cancer. It provides a comprehensive cancer control program for the people of British Columbia by working with community partners to deliver a range of oncology services, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, research, education, supportive care, rehabilitation and palliative care. The BC Cancer Research Centre conducts research into the causes and cures for cancer.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Nicole Adams
Public Relations Officer
BC Cancer Agency
Ph: (604) 877-6272
Pager: (604) 641-5167