What Biden’s Gleason score of 9 means for ‘aggressive’ prostate cancer case

Former President Joe Biden has recently been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer with metastasis to the bone. This news has sparked concerns as the Gleason score, a grading system for prostate cancer severity, was ranked at 9, indicating high-grade cancer.

Dr. Arpeet Shah, a urologist, explained that the Gleason score is based on how different cancer cells appear compared to normal prostate cells under a microscope. The grading system ranges from 1 to 5, with higher numbers indicating more aggressive cancer. Biden’s score of 9 falls in grade group 5, which signifies a fast-growing and aggressive cancer.

Pathologists assign grades based on the appearance of cancer cells in the tissue, with Grade 1 cells looking like normal cells and Grade 5 cells appearing very abnormal. The Gleason score is determined by adding the grades of the largest cancerous areas, with scores ranging from 6 to 10. A score of 8 to 10 indicates high-grade cancer that may require more aggressive treatment.

Early detection is crucial in the management of prostate cancer, and regular screening with a PSA blood test and digital rectal exam can lead to earlier diagnosis. Biden’s diagnosis might have been detected sooner with routine screenings.

In an interview, Fox News medical contributor Dr. Nicole Saphier emphasized that prostate cancer comes in different forms and can be treated differently based on individual cases. Biden’s metastasized cancer is classified as stage 4, significantly decreasing the chance of survival. However, the cancer is hormone-sensitive, allowing for treatment options that can control the disease.

While stage 4 cancer is considered the worst-case scenario, advancements in treatment options offer hope for managing the disease. Surgery or medication to stop testosterone production can help control the cancer’s growth. The goal is to achieve no evidence of disease or prevent progression of the cancer.

Despite the challenges posed by a stage 4 cancer diagnosis, Biden and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians. The former president’s health will be closely monitored, and he will receive the necessary care to manage his condition. As more information becomes available, updates on Biden’s health and treatment plan will be shared with the public.

Fox News reporters Stepheny Price and Peter Doocy contributed to this report. Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.