Introduction to Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer affects the tissue of the prostate, the part of the male reproductive system that contributes to making sperm. It lies between the penis and the bladder. According to the NHS, it usually develops slowly, which means that a few decades can pass before symptoms appear or treatment is needed. In some cases, cancer is aggressive, and the patient’s family should explore treatment options.
What are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?
One of the most common signs of prostate cancer is urine symptoms, as the prostate is located near the urethra, the tube that connects the bladder to the penis. These symptoms can also include a slow or weak urine stream. Other symptoms may be present as well.
Prevalence of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer in American men, behind lung cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, there will be over 300,000 new cases this year. About one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. While it is not unusual for men in their 80s to be diagnosed with prostate cancer, the stage and degree of Biden’s cancer are more advanced than most men.
Understanding the Gleason Score
The Gleason score is a method used to grade the ability of cells from the primary tumor to spread around the body. It relates to how abnormally the cancer cells look under a microscope in a sample. The scale runs from six to 10, with a higher number indicating a more aggressive cancer. A Gleason score of nine means that it is a "high-grade cancer", and cancer cells with this score look very abnormal and will likely grow quickly.
Treatment Options for Aggressive Prostate Cancer
Aggressive prostate cancer that has spread to the bones limits the treatment options. While there are medical treatments such as chemotherapy, steroids, and hormone therapy, none of them are curative. Treatment aims to stabilize the patient and control the cancer. If the cancer is sensitive to hormones, it can be treated with drugs that block or lower the amount of hormones in the body.
Prognosis for Advanced Prostate Cancer
The complete details of the case are not known, but in general, about a third of patients will still be alive after five years of metastatic prostate cancer. Advanced stages of prostate cancer can restrict and lead to symptoms that make daily life difficult. It is essential to consider treatments that maintain the quality of life in the next few years. Checking for symptoms is crucial, whether they are present or not.
