Former U.S. President Joe Biden’s past battle with prostate cancer has once again come into public focus, sparking renewed conversations about men’s health and the importance of early detection.
According to a recent health summary released by White House physician Dr. Kevin O’Connor, Biden was diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer in 2003 during a routine physical exam while serving as a U.S. senator. Following two surgeries to remove the cancerous tissue, doctors confirmed that the cancer had been successfully treated without the need for radiation or chemotherapy. Biden has remained cancer-free for over two decades.
Prostate cancer is among the most common cancers affecting men, with the American Cancer Society estimating that 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with the disease in their lifetime. Though often slow-growing, the cancer can be aggressive if not detected early.
Prostate cancer frequently develops without symptoms in its early stages. As a result, routine screenings are vital—particularly for high-risk groups such as African American men, men over 50, and those with a family history of the disease.
Key screening methods include
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test
Digital rectal examination (DRE)
When detected early, the five-year survival rate for prostate cancer is nearly 99%.
Recent public discourse has brought attention to medical terms such as the Gleason score, which is used to assess the aggressiveness of prostate cancer. Scores range from 6 to 10, with a score of 9 indicating a highly aggressive form of cancer.
Another critical factor is whether the cancer is hormone-sensitive—meaning it relies on male hormones like testosterone to grow. In such cases, hormone therapy can be an effective treatment option.
Health experts stress the importance of proactive care. “Prostate cancer is highly treatable when found early,” said Dr. John Smith, a leading oncologist. “President Biden’s story is a testament to how routine screenings and early intervention can save lives.”
Medical guidelines recommend:
Men aged 50 and older: Discuss PSA testing with a healthcare provider.
High-risk individuals (African American men or those with a family history): Begin screenings at age 45.
Watch for warning signs: Urinary difficulties, blood in urine, or pelvic pain should prompt immediate medical attention.
A Message for All Men
As a public figure, Biden’s openness about his diagnosis and recovery serves as a reminder that cancer is not a death sentence when caught early. His story encourages men to be vigilant about their health and seek timely medical advice. With lives at stake, the message is clear: Early detection can make all the difference.