A Prelude to a Cure: How One Man’s Courage is Redefining the Fight Against Prostate Cancer

For John Frotton, a 66-year-old chemical engineer from East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, numbers are a way of life. He spends his days working on complex projects, converting waste streams into new forms of energy. But a year ago, a few simple numbers changed his life forever.

His PSA, a key marker for prostate health, had always been normal, sitting comfortably under 3. Then, in less than a year, it shot up to 9.

The diagnosis that followed was one that millions of men fear: aggressive prostate cancer.

"When you hear the word 'aggressive,' it's a shock to the system," John might say. The standard treatment plan was clear and immediate: a radical prostatectomy to surgically remove the prostate and some surrounding lymph nodes.

But even with the best surgery, a shadow of uncertainty often remains. For men with high-risk cancer, the chance of the disease returning can be as high as 40% within a decade. It’s a statistic that can weigh heavily on a patient's mind.

This is where John’s story takes a pioneering turn. He was offered a chance to fight the cancer before it was even removed. He became the very first patient to enroll in the PRELUDE Trial, a groundbreaking clinical study aimed at preventing recurrence.

Led by Dr. Nitin Yerram, co-director of urologic oncology at the renowned John Theurer Cancer Center (JTCC), the trial represents a paradigm shift in treatment. “We are dedicated to advancing the treatment of prostate cancer and proud to be the first center in North America to conduct this innovative clinical trial,” said Dr. Yerram.

Executing such a sophisticated treatment requires a seamless, multidisciplinary approach. For the PRELUDE trial, this means a dedicated team of specialists from Urologic Oncology, Nuclear Medicine, and Radiation Oncology work in close collaboration. The nuclear medicine team is responsible for the precise preparation and administration of the radiopharmaceutical, while radiation oncologists provide expertise on its therapeutic effects. This integrated effort is so specialized that Hackensack University Medical Center is currently the only institution where urologists can offer patients this proactive treatment, solidifying its position as a leader in prostate cancer care.

The PRELUDE Trial is testing a powerful, FDA-approved therapy called Lu-177-PSMA-617 in a new way. Instead of being used for cancer that has already spread, it’s being given to men like John before their surgery.

Think of it as a microscopic heat-seeking missile. The therapy contains two parts: a molecule that targets a protein (PSMA) found almost exclusively on prostate cancer cells, and a radioactive particle (Lu-177) that delivers a precise dose of radiation. The drug travels through the body, locks onto the cancer cells, and destroys them, while minimizing harm to healthy tissue. The goal is to eliminate any microscopic cells that might have escaped the prostate, effectively stopping a recurrence before it can even start.

As the first participant, John received two cycles of the therapy, six weeks apart, before undergoing his scheduled prostatectomy.

Today, John is back in his home office, feeling well and looking forward to a trip to Philadelphia. He recently attended a high school reunion where he met a former classmate who had gone through a similar prostate cancer diagnosis. The conversation was a powerful reminder of his unique journey—one man had followed the standard path, while John was helping to forge a new one.

Being the first has given him more than just a novel treatment; it has given him peace of mind. He is proud to be a pioneer in a study that could change the future for countless men.

John’s story is a powerful testament to two critical things:

1. The Lifesaving Importance of Screening: His rapidly rising PSA was the alarm bell that allowed for early, decisive action. It’s a reminder for all men to stay on top of their health and get regular check-ups.
2. The Power of Medical Innovation: Clinical trials like PRELUDE are the engine of progress. They offer patients access to the next generation of care and give hope where there was once uncertainty.

“We are eager to see if this promising therapy improves patient outcomes in men with high-risk localized prostate cancer,” Dr. Yerram stated.

For John Frotton and the men who will follow him, this trial is more than just a study. It’s a prelude to a future with less fear and a greater chance for a long, healthy life.

This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, please consider sharing the news of this crucial trial.