Former US President Joe Biden has commenced radiation therapy, alongside ongoing hormone treatment, for aggressive prostate cancer diagnosed earlier this year. This definitive guide explores the intricacies of his treatment, the medical implications of his Gleason score 9 diagnosis, and the broader context of cancer in public life, moving beyond breaking news to provide a complete understanding for our community.
The health of public figures, especially former presidents, consistently captures widespread attention, and the ongoing treatment of former US President Joe Biden for prostate cancer is no exception. In a significant development, a spokesperson confirmed on Saturday that the 82-year-old former president is now undergoing radiation therapy as a crucial part of his treatment plan. This intensive therapy complements the hormone treatment he has been receiving, marking a new phase in his battle against an aggressive form of the disease.
Biden, who is set to turn 83 next month, first publicly revealed his diagnosis of metastatic prostate cancer in May. His team characterized the illness as aggressive but notably hormone-sensitive, a factor that medical experts believe makes it more likely to respond positively to treatment. This recent update provides deeper insight into the comprehensive approach being taken to manage his condition.
Understanding the Diagnosis: Aggressive Cancer and a Gleason Score of 9
The severity of Biden’s prostate cancer was underscored by its initial diagnosis. It was reported to be metastatic, indicating it had spread to his bones. This spread, while serious, does not necessarily mean an immediate dire prognosis, especially given its hormone-sensitive nature. Medical professionals grade prostate cancers using a system called the Gleason score, which ranges from 6 to 10. A higher score signifies more aggressive cancer cells that are more likely to grow and spread rapidly. Biden’s office stated his score was 9, placing his cancer among the most aggressive forms, categorized as Grade Group 5, the highest-risk category.
Despite the high Gleason score, the fact that the cancer is hormone-sensitive is a key factor in its management. Hormone therapy works by blocking testosterone from reaching cancer cells, as prostate cancer often relies on testosterone to grow. This approach can effectively control the disease and alleviate symptoms, even when it has metastasized, as noted by the American Cancer Society.
The Treatment Plan: Radiation, Hormones, and Previous Procedures
Biden’s current treatment regimen involves both radiation therapy and ongoing hormone treatment. The radiation therapy, expected to continue for five weeks, aims to target and destroy cancer cells, particularly in areas where the cancer has spread. This dual approach is common for aggressive or advanced prostate cancer cases, offering a multi-pronged attack against the disease.
Prior to his radiation therapy, the former president also underwent other procedures related to his health. In September, he had Mohs surgery to remove cancerous cells from his skin, a common and effective treatment for skin cancer. This separate procedure highlights the comprehensive medical care Biden has been receiving since leaving office. He had been taking hormone medication in pill form since the initial prostate cancer diagnosis in May, managing urinary symptoms that led to the discovery of a small nodule on his prostate, as reported by Reuters and UPI.
Medical Context: Prostate Cancer in Older Men and Prognosis
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the U.S. and the second-leading cause of cancer death, according to the National Cancer Institute. An estimated 313,780 new cases are diagnosed annually. While it often grows slowly, aggressive forms like Biden’s require vigilant and multi-modal treatment.
Despite the aggressive nature and spread to bone, which often makes the cancer incurable, advancements in chemotherapy and hormone therapies have significantly extended the life expectancy and improved the quality of life for individuals with similarly advanced diagnoses. Biden himself has expressed optimism about his prognosis, stating in May, “The expectation is we are going to be able to beat this,” and adding, “I feel good.”
Biden’s Public Journey and the “Cancer Moonshot” Legacy
The former president’s health has been a consistent topic of discussion, particularly during his bid for re-election which he ultimately dropped. Concerns about his age and health were prominent during debates. However, Biden has consistently pushed back against questions regarding his fitness, maintaining an active public schedule. His openness about his cancer diagnosis continues a trend of public figures sharing their health journeys, which can raise awareness and reduce stigma around serious illnesses.
Notably, during his presidency, Biden launched the “Cancer Moonshot” program, an ambitious initiative aimed at accelerating cancer research, diagnosis, and treatment. His personal experience with cancer, including the loss of his son Beau to brain cancer, has deeply informed his commitment to this cause. His ongoing treatment now adds a personal dimension to this public health endeavor, highlighting the universal challenges posed by cancer and the continuous pursuit of effective treatments for all.
As Joe Biden continues his treatment for aggressive prostate cancer, his journey remains a point of public interest and a reminder of the advances and ongoing challenges in cancer care. The combination of radiation and hormone therapy represents a robust approach to managing his condition, offering hope and insights into the evolving landscape of cancer treatment.
