What Biden’s Diagnosis Means and Why Prostate Cancer Screening Matters
Former President Joe Biden, age 82, announced Sunday May 18th that he was recently diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer, marked by a Gleason score of 9 (grade group 5) and metastasis to the bone. This high-grade diagnosis places him in a high-risk category, highlighting the importance of regular prostate health screenings and expert cancer care.
What is a Gleason Score?
The Gleason score is a grading system used to assess how aggressive prostate cancer is by examining how abnormal cancer cells appear under a microscope. A Gleason score of 9, as seen in Biden’s case, indicates a more aggressive and potentially faster-growing cancers, that may require prompt and comprehensive treatment.
Who Gets Prostate Cancer?
Any man can develop prostate cancer, but certain risk factors increase the likelihood:
- Age: The risk rises significantly after age 50. More than half of prostate cancers are diagnosed in men over 65.
- Health Factors: Smoking, diet, and chemical exposures can elevate risk.
- Race, Ethnicity, and Genetics: African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer face higher risks, according to the American Cancer Society.
Signs and Symptoms
Prostate cancer often develops silently, with few or no symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, symptoms may include:
- Urinary frequency or urgency
- Difficulty urinating
- Blood in the urine
- Erectile dysfunction
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection is key to successful prostate cancer treatment. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death among men in the United States. Regular screenings-such as PSA blood tests and digital rectal exams with your Primary Care are key to early detection, greatly improving survival rates.
Advanced Care at Ackerman Cancer Center and Ackerman Urology
If you or a loved one are concerned about prostate health, Ackerman Urology and Ackerman Cancer Center offer expert, comprehensive care in Northeast Florida. Ackerman Urology provides advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans for prostate cancer, elevated PSA, enlarged prostate, and other men’s health issues. Ackerman Cancer Center is a leader in radiation oncology and proton therapy, offering cutting-edge treatments that precisely target tumors while minimizing side effects.
Take Charge of your Prostate Health
Former President Joe Bidens’ openness about his diagnosis shines a light on the importance of regular prostate care with Ackerman Urology and early intervention at Ackerman Cancer Center. Men over 50, or those at higher risk, should schedule annual prostate exams and PSA blood tests with their Primary Care Physician.
Don’t wait- early detection saves lives. Contact Ackerman Urology at (904) 490-7401 to schedule your follow-ups. Recently diagnosed and seeking your treatment options? Contact Ackerman Cancer Center (904) 880-5522.