Biden’s prostate cancer labeled ‘aggressive’ — what that means for prognosis and treatment

Prostate cancer cases have been steadily increasing over the years, with a 3% annual rise since 2014. This year alone, more than 300,000 men, including former President Joe Biden, have been diagnosed with the disease. Biden’s office confirmed the diagnosis after a routine exam revealed a “small nodule” in his prostate. While the cancer is said to be aggressive, it is hormone-sensitive, allowing for effective management through hormone therapy.

Hormone therapy is a common treatment option for prostate cancer, as it blocks the hormones that fuel the growth of cancer cells. By cutting off the supply of testosterone, cancer cells may die or grow more slowly. Other treatment options for prostate cancer include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiopharmaceutical treatments.

Prostate cancer primarily affects men and is the second most common cancer in men after skin cancer. It is estimated that about 313,780 new cases will be diagnosed in 2025, with 35,770 men succumbing to the disease. Older men are at a higher risk, with six in 10 cases diagnosed in patients 65 and older. The average age of diagnosis is 67, with men under 40 rarely affected. Biden, who is 82, falls into the higher-risk category.

Symptoms of prostate cancer may include problems urinating, blood in urine or bodily fluids, pain in the hips, back, or chest, erectile dysfunction, weight loss, fatigue, weakness in legs or feet, and loss of bladder or bowel control. Early detection through routine screening can help catch the disease before symptoms emerge.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that men aged 55 to 69 consider periodic prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening to monitor for prostate cancer. However, screening may come with potential harms such as false-positive results, overdiagnosis, overtreatment, and treatment complications.

Survival rates for localized prostate cancer are promising, with a five-year survival rate of at least 99%. For regional cases, the survival rate remains high, but it drops to 37% if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Actual survival rates may vary based on various factors such as age, overall health, disease progression, response to treatment, and more.

In conclusion, prostate cancer is a serious disease that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Regular screening and early detection are crucial in improving survival rates and outcomes for patients. It is essential for men to be aware of the symptoms, risk factors, and screening recommendations to protect their health and well-being.