Igniting the Discovery Spark through Movember research funding

TORONTO, July 17, 2013 /CNW/ - Prostate Cancer Canada is dedicated to supporting prostate cancer researchers on the verge of an early-stage research breakthrough with the Movember Discovery Grants program. This program allows both junior investigators at the start of their research career and more established investigators to pursue new important directions in prostate cancer research. Each recipient of the Movember Discovery Grant will receive up to $200,000 in funding over a two-year term.

This year, we are pleased to announce that 40 grant recipients have been funded. Prostate Cancer Canada saw a 23% increase in the number of applications received, with a total funding envelope of close to $8 million in support of innovation. With the addition of the Movember Discovery Grant funds, Prostate Cancer Canada has more than quadrupled mission investment since last year.

"What is particularly remarkable about the grant recipients this year is the breadth of topics covered. For example, for the first time ever, research grants studying survivorship have been funded. This highlights the importance of improving quality of life for survivors," says Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of Prostate Cancer Canada.

This year also saw a more geographically varied pool of recipients, with funding flowing outside of established centres of prostate cancer research. The spread in the funding allocation indicates that talented investigators from across the country are choosing to specialize in prostate cancer research.

"It is the enthusiasm and dedication of Canadian Mo Bros and Mo Sistas that allows for the funding of vital research like the Movember Discovery Grants," comments Pete Bombaci, National Director, Movember Canada. "It is one idea, one spark, that can help make a large scale impact on prostate cancer and we are honoured that Mo dollars raised from coast to coast are helping to make this happen."

The Movember Discovery Grants epitomize innovation in prostate cancer research and focus on a broad range of topics, from basic biological science to population health. To keep up-to-date on research progress, visit us at prostatecancer.ca or follow us on social media.

Thank You to Movember
PCC would like to recognize the Movember Foundation as the sole funder of this program this year. For information about additional prostate cancer research underway, visit prostatecancer.ca.

About Prostate Cancer Canada
Prostate Cancer Canada raises funds for the development of programs related to awareness and public education, advocacy, support of those affected, and research into the prevention, detection, treatment and cure of prostate cancer.  For more information visit prostatecancer.ca and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

About Movember
During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men's faces, in Canada and around the world. With their Mo's, these Mo Bros and supporting Mo Sistas raise vital funds and awareness for men's health issues. Since its inception as a charity event in 2004, over 2 million Mo Bros and Mo Sistas have raised almost $300 M for its causes with official Movember campaigns taking place in 21 countries. For more information, please visit movember.com - @movemberCA - facebook.com/movembercanada or contact [email protected].

SOURCE: Prostate Cancer Canada