Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis raises questions about screening and how the disease spreads
Former President Joe Biden has recently been diagnosed with advanced stage prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, sparking an outpouring of concern and questions about his condition. The rapid spread of the cancer is attributed to its aggressive nature, with a Gleason score of 9 placing him in Grade Group 5, the most severe category. The Gleason score is a grading system for prostate cancer based on cell sample analysis under a microscope.
Prostate cancer that has spread often affects the bones, along with other areas such as the lymph nodes, liver, or lungs, according to the Mayo Clinic. Late-stage cancer diagnoses are unfortunately not uncommon, with a significant percentage of cancers being diagnosed at an advanced stage. Disruptions in care, such as those experienced during the pandemic, have also led to an increase in late-stage diagnoses across various cancer types, including prostate cancer.
Biden, now 82, did not undergo prostate cancer screening during his last medical checkup in February 2024, as these screenings are not routinely recommended for men 70 years or older. His diagnosis came after experiencing urinary symptoms, leading to the discovery of a small nodule in the prostate that required further evaluation.
Treating advanced prostate cancer involves controlling the cancer’s progression and preserving quality of life. Biden’s hormone-sensitive cancer is expected to respond to testosterone-blocking treatment, possibly in combination with other medications or chemotherapy. In 2019, he was diagnosed with benign enlargement of the prostate, a common condition in older men.
How is Prostate Cancer Screened?
Prostate cancer testing typically involves a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and a digital rectal exam (DRE). The decision on screening for prostate cancer is individualized, with the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommending against PSA screening for men 70 and older due to potential harms such as false-positive results and overdiagnosis.
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer affecting males, with around 13 out of 100 males developing the disease at some point in their lives. It is crucial to tailor medical decisions to the individual, as seen in Biden’s case, where new symptoms justified further investigation.
