Joe Biden’s Cancer Diagnosis: What You Need to Know

The revelation that former President Joe Biden has a “more aggressive form” of prostate cancer has raised significant public interest and concern regarding the disease.

Last week, Biden sought medical attention due to urinary symptoms. Following a thorough examination, doctors discovered a prostate nodule that was subsequently tested for malignancy. On Friday, Biden received his official cancer diagnosis, with cancer cells reportedly having metastasized to the bones, as confirmed by a spokesperson.

This information was disclosed to the public on Sunday, prompting many questions about prostate cancer itself.

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death among men in the United States.

Unlike many other cancers that are categorized by stages, prostate cancer is evaluated using a “Gleason score.” This score assesses how significantly cancerous cells differ from normal ones, rated on a scale of 1 to 10. With Biden’s score at 9, his form of cancer is classified as highly aggressive, as indicated by his office.

Prostate cancers can depend on hormones for growth, making them potentially responsive to treatments that limit hormone availability. However, the progression to metastatic cancer complicates treatment options significantly, as it is no longer confined to a single location.

Johns Hopkins Medicine indicates that while the overall prognosis for prostate cancer remains relatively favorable, metastatic cases present a five-year survival rate of approximately 28%.

Biden’s representatives stated on Sunday that the former president and his family are currently evaluating treatment options in consultation with his medical team. No further details regarding his condition have been released.

Prostate cancer is characterized by abnormal cellular growth, as specified by the Mayo Clinic. The prostate, a small gland located below the bladder, plays a vital role in male reproduction by producing seminal fluid.

Caution signs may include blood in urine or semen, increased urinary frequency, and difficulties in urination. In advanced stages, symptoms may evolve to encompass back and bone pain, erectile dysfunction, weakness in limbs, and weight loss.

Anyone with a prostate is susceptible to this cancer, but certain factors heighten the risk. Predominantly, age is a significant factor; men over 50 are more likely to be diagnosed. More than half of all prostate cancers occur in men older than 65, including Biden, who is 82. Additional risk factors include smoking, dietary habits, exposure to certain chemicals, genetics, and ethnicity according to the American Cancer Society.

Healthcare experts recommend that men start screening for prostate cancer at around 50. Those with increased risk factors are advised to initiate testing earlier. Screening methods may include blood tests and rectal examinations.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.