What to know about prostate cancer after former President Joe Biden’s diagnosis

Biden’s diagnosis

The office of former President Joe Biden announced Sunday he has been diagnosed with an “aggressive form” of سرطان پروستات, which has spread to his bones.

Most prostate cancers are diagnosed in those who are older than 65—President Biden is 82—and there are usually no symptoms of prostate cancer in the early stages (some people experience symptoms that can include urinary problems or pain).

“While [President Biden’s diagnosis] represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management,” the statement from his office said.

What you need to know about prostate cancer

Those with a prostate gland and who are at average risk should start talking to a health care provider at age 50 about the pros and cons of prostate cancer screening. Early detection of prostate cancer followed by prompt treatment saves lives; however, some people are “overtreated,” meaning they are treated for prostate cancers that will never cause them harm, and they must live with any side effects or complications of the treatment.

You should begin that discussion with your health care provider at age 45 if you have a close relative (parent, child or sibling) who had prostate cancer before age 65 or if you are Black. The incidence of prostate cancer is more than 70% higher in Black men than in white men for reasons that remain unclear.

You should begin that discussion with your health care provider at age 40 if you have more than one close relative (parent, child or sibling) who had prostate cancer before age 65.

To reduce your risk of prostate cancer, do not smoke or use tobacco in any way, maintain a healthy weight, and know your family health history. If you do smoke or use tobacco, call 1-800-QUITNOW for help quitting.

There are usually no symptoms in the early stages of prostate cancer, and some symptoms could also be caused by other health problems, including an enlarged prostate. But you should familiarize yourself with the symptoms of prostate cancer and talk to your health care provider if you experience any of the following:

• Urinary elimination problems, such as:
  • Having trouble starting or stopping urine flow
  • Having a weak or interrupted urine flow
  • Feeling pain or a burning sensation while urinating.
  • نیاز به دفع بیشتر ادرار، به خصوص در شب.
• خون در ادرار.
• نعوظ دردناک یا دشوار.
• درد در ناحیه کمر، لگن یا قسمت بالای ران.

منابع

The Prevent Cancer Foundation is here to help you take steps to reduce your cancer risk and get the routine screenings you need. Check out these resources:

• Family health history chart
• غربالگری سرطان رایگان و کم هزینه
• Set up calendar reminders for your cancer screenings

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