Indo-Canadian Prostate Cancer Researcher From Kelowna Receives Grant

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The Dr. Gurmeet Singh Randhawa Seniors Society is receiving close to $25,000 in federal funding through the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP). This program supports projects led or inspired by seniors who want to make a difference in the lives of others and in their communities.

KELOWNA – Dr. Gurmeet Singh, McMaster University, is one of 26 researchers across Canada receiving a Movember Discovery Grant, awarded by Prostate Cancer Canada.

The Dr. Gurmeet Singh Randhawa Seniors Society is receiving close to $25,000 in federal funding through the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP). This program supports projects led or inspired by seniors who want to make a difference in the lives of others and in their communities.

Dr. Singh’s research focuses on treating patients with prostate cancer who also suffer from a type of depression that is resistant to standard treatment.

Dr. Singh and his team have found that cancer cells secrete glutamate, a chemical that induces such depression. Glutamate can initiate permanent changes in the brain and be a major contributing factor to depression.

This study aims to modify the release of glutamate from cancer cells so that it does not have an effect on the body and no longer plays a role in inducing depression.

Through this project, the society will install a new furnace, heating controls, and flooring. A pool table will also be replaced. The facility renovations will help continue to provide seniors with a social gathering place to support social participation and inclusion.

“Our government is proud to work with organizations like the Dr. Gurmeet Singh Randhawa Seniors Society to increase the social participation and inclusion of seniors. By supporting projects like these under the New Horizons for Seniors Program, we are ensuring seniors maintain a good quality of life and continue to be active members of their communities, ” said Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors).