Following the news of former U.S. President Joe Biden being diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer that has spread to his bones, public attention has sharply turned toward understanding the disease, its symptoms, and associated risks.
What Is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer originates in the prostate gland—a small, walnut-shaped part of the male reproductive system. It is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among men worldwide. Hormonal changes, especially those involving androgens like testosterone, significantly influence its growth and development.
According to medical professionals, hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, such as Biden’s, is often treated through hormone therapy. This approach reduces the body’s levels of male hormones, particularly testosterone, which can slow or stop cancer growth.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 13 out of every 100 American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. It ranks as the second most common cancer in men after skin cancer.
Recognising the Symptoms
Early symptoms of prostate cancer may include:
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Frequent urge to urinate
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Difficulty initiating or maintaining urination
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Pain during urination
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Urinary leakage
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Discomfort in the lower back or pelvic area
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Presence of blood in urine
These signs often appear subtly and can sometimes be mistaken for less serious health issues, making early diagnosis crucial.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Men over the age of 50 are at the highest risk of developing prostate cancer. In the United States, the average age at diagnosis is 66, as stated on the Cleveland Clinic’s official website.
Why Early Detection Matters
When caught in its early stages—before the cancer has spread beyond the prostate—the disease is highly treatable. According to the National Library of Medicine, about 99% of men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer survive after undergoing treatments like surgery or radiation.
However, once the cancer metastasizes, as in Biden’s case, treatment becomes more complicated, often requiring advanced and targeted therapies. Medical experts warn that survival rates tend to drop significantly when the disease reaches this stage.
How to Lower Your Risk
To reduce the chances of developing prostate cancer, health professionals recommend:
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Maintaining a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats
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Regular medical checkups and prostate screenings
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Staying physically active
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Avoiding tobacco use
While no method guarantees complete prevention, these lifestyle choices may help reduce overall risk and support early detection.
