Former President Joe Biden announced on Sunday that he has been diagnosed with active prostate cancer and is currently discussing treatment options with his physician.
Biden has experienced increased urinary symptoms and was evaluated by a doctor last week, who discovered a nodule on his prostate. On Friday, he received a diagnosis of prostate cancer, indicating that cancer cells have spread to the bone, according to a statement from his office.
Early detection of prostate cancer is highly treatable, but it remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men. The American Cancer Society notes that men may be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lives.
Here are some important facts about prostate cancer spread:
What is the prostate?
The prostate is a component of the male reproductive system. It produces fluid found in semen. The organ is located beneath the bladder and encircles a tube that transports urine and semen through the urethra and penis.
How serious is Biden’s cancer?
Biden’s cancer has metastasized to the bone, as stated by his office. This indicates a more serious condition compared to localized or early-stage prostate cancer.
Recent advancements have improved the prognosis for patients, allowing many to live with metastatic prostate cancer, according to Dr. Matthew Smith from the Brigham Cancer Center in Massachusetts.
“It’s very treatable, but it’s not easily curable,” Smith explained.
What treatment options are available?
Prostate cancer may be treated with hormone-lowering medications or therapies that prevent cancer cells from proliferating. These treatments can slow the progression of cancer.
“We generally advise that most men in this situation should consider either surgery or radiation therapy rather than solely relying on medication,” Smith noted.
What is a Gleason score?
The Gleason score is used to assess the aggressiveness of prostate cancer. Scores range from 6 to 10, with cancers rated at 8, 9, and 10 indicating more aggressive behavior. Biden’s office has reported a Gleason score of 9, indicating that his cancer is highly aggressive.
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Source: apnews.com