Biden diagnosed with prostate cancer: Five myths debunked after former US President's 'aggressive' diagnosis

Time of India

19-05-2025

Former US President Joe Biden was diagnosed with an 'aggressive form' of
prostate cancer
that has a five-year survival rate of between 30% and 40%. The prostate cancer that has spread to his bones, the Democrat's office announced on Sunday.
The press statement said the Democratic leader was diagnosed with the disease after he experienced urinary symptoms, and a prostate nodule was found. Now, the Biden family is reviewing options for possible treatment plans.
"While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management. The President and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians," the statement said.
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The 82-year-old leader's son, Beau Biden, also died of cancer in 2015. According to the statement, Biden's cancer was found to have "a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5)."
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"While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management." The American Cancer Society suggests that around one in every eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime.
Given the rising awareness around prostate cancer, it's crucial to address widespread misconceptions. David James, Director of Patient Projects and Influencing at Prostate Cancer Research, spoke with Surrey Live to clarify five persistent myths about the disease.
Myths about prostate cancer:
Myth 1: Only older men get prostate cancer
While it's true that prostate cancer is more common in men over 50, it can occur at any age. "Many believe it's a disease exclusive to older men, but that's simply not the case," David explained.
Although age is a known risk factor, other elements—such as ethnicity and family history—also significantly influence risk. According to NHS guidance, Black men are more likely to develop prostate cancer than Asian men. Additional risks include obesity, dietary factors, and high calcium intake, reports The Mirror.
Myth 2: There are always clear symptoms
Symptoms like difficulty urinating or blood in the urine may be linked to prostate cancer, but early stages are often symptomless. "Symptoms typically emerge only when the cancer has grown large enough to affect surrounding tissue or spread," said David. Early detection can be challenging, making regular screening especially important for high-risk groups, the report mentioned.
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Myth 3: Prostate cancer is always slow-growing
Not all prostate cancers develop slowly. The disease's severity is measured using the Gleason score, which ranges from 2 to 10. A higher score indicates a more aggressive cancer. "While many cases are slow-growing, some can be very aggressive—particularly in younger men or those with a family history," David noted. For these patients, early diagnosis is critical for improving survival outcomes.
Myth 4: Immediate treatment is always necessary
Treatment approaches vary depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer. In some early-stage cases, active monitoring—known as 'active surveillance'—may be the best course of action. "Prostate cancer often progresses slowly, even the more aggressive types. That gives patients time to consider options carefully," David explained. Avoiding or delaying treatment can also help reduce side effects from surgery or radiotherapy.
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Myth 5: Treatment means the end of your sex life
David emphasized that a prostate cancer diagnosis doesn't necessarily mean the end of sexual activity. While some treatments may affect sexual function, recovery is possible—and support is available. "We encourage people to understand that sex isn't just about penetration. Many regain function, and there are treatments that can help," he added.