Prostate cancer theranostics pioneer wins award

Thousands of men diagnosed with prostate cancer are now receiving faster, more accurate diagnoses and more effective, targeted treatments, thanks to the pioneering research of Professor Michael Hofman. The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) Foundation named Professor Hofman the recipient of the 2024 Eric Susman Prize.

A nuclear medicine physician and Director of the Prostate Cancer Theranostics and Imaging Centre of Excellence (ProsTIC) at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Professor Hofman has been at the forefront of transforming prostate cancer care through theranostics. This cutting-edge approach combines advanced imaging techniques with highly targeted radiation therapy, ushering in a new era of personalised medicine.

“Professor Hofman’s research represents a paradigm shift in prostate cancer care,” said RACP President Professor Jennifer Martin. “His work has fundamentally changed how we detect and treat prostate cancer, transforming patient outcomes across the world.”

Clinical trials led by Professor Hofman have demonstrated a 90% accuracy rate in treating prostate cancer, even in cases that had previously proven resistant to treatment. His work has now become the global standard for prostate cancer imaging and therapy, improving outcomes and reducing side effects for patients.

Professor Hofman’s innovative use of radioactive molecules that bind to proteins on cancer cells allows for highly detailed PET scans to detect cancer with remarkable precision. This method not only pinpoints the location of prostate cancer throughout the body but also delivers radiation therapy directly to tumour sites, reducing harm to surrounding healthy tissue.

“What makes Professor Hofman’s achievement even more remarkable is how quickly these innovations moved from experimental to standard practice,” Professor Martin said.

“This showcases the power of well-supported medical research to rapidly improve lives. When we support talented researchers with promising ideas, the results can be extraordinary and can help save countless lives.”

Accepting the award, Professor Hofman acknowledged the support of the RACP and highlighted Australia’s leading role in the advancement of nuclear medicine.

“PET scanning and theranostics enable truly personalised medicine, improving outcomes for our patients,” Professor Hofman said.

“Our ability to lead innovation is a marker of Australia’s world-class infrastructure and expertise. I hope this award encourages the next generation of the RACP internal medical trainees to pursue the speciality of nuclear medicine,” Professor Hofman said.

He was also named Australia’s top researcher in the field of Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging in 2024 and 2025. His research in PSMA PET and PSMA radioligand therapy has transformed prostate cancer imaging and treatment, resulting in MBS funding and a $2.1 billion investment by Novartis.

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