The former U.S. president faces advanced prostate cancer, with potential treatment paths that may extend life expectancy.
Former U.S. President
Joe Biden has been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer, a condition that has reportedly metastasized to his bones.
The diagnosis was made public recently, and while the cancer's advanced stage makes complete eradication unlikely, oncologists indicate that effective treatments may still help manage the disease.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men globally, particularly affecting those over the age of 65. It is estimated that approximately one in six men will develop prostate cancer at some point in their lives.
While early-stage diagnosis often indicates a favorable prognosis, Biden’s case presents significant challenges, as his cancer is classified as metastatic, which occurs in a minority of cases (approximately 10%) diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The aggressiveness of Biden's cancer is highlighted by its Gleason score, which stands at nine on a scale of ten.
This score assesses the degree of abnormality in the tumor cells, with higher scores correlating with increased aggressiveness and mortality risk, according to experts in the field.
Although a complete cure for advanced prostate cancer remains elusive, oncologists stress that treatments could result in an increased life expectancy.
Biden's cancer responds to hormone treatments, which can be effective in modulating the action of androgens such as testosterone that promote cancer cell growth.
His official statement noted that he and his close ones are currently evaluating treatment options.
Experts suggest that, with appropriate hormonal treatments, patients may live for several years, but the effectiveness of these therapies may diminish after two to three years for aggressive cancers like Biden's. Typically, chemotherapy may be considered to complement hormonal therapy; however, it has not been mentioned in Biden’s treatment discussions, with some experts speculating he may not be in good enough health to endure such treatments.
The timing of Biden's cancer diagnosis raises questions regarding the potential political implications, particularly regarding his awareness of the conditions during his previous electoral campaigns.
Speculation surrounding his mental acuity during his presidency has surfaced in recent discussions, prompted by a newly published book.
Furthermore, experts recognize that individuals with prostate cancer can experience a range of symptoms that vary from person to person, complicating the detection of any underlying conditions until they reach advanced stages.
Despite the gravity of Biden's situation, it remains a medical possibility that he was unaware of the cancer's progression, which can sometimes develop aggressively in a short span of time.
As the political landscape evolves, the implications of Biden's health will be closely monitored.