Former U.S. President Joe Biden’s recent diagnosis of aggressive prostate cancer with bone metastasis has drawn attention to this prevalent men’s health issue. Chinese medical experts Xu Tao from Peking University People’s Hospital and Zhu Yao from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center provide key insights into prostate cancer progression and prevention.
Decoding Biden’s Diagnosis
The 82-year-old’s Gleason score of 9 indicates:
- High-grade tumor (Grade Group 5) with poorly differentiated cells
- Advanced stage due to bone metastasis
- Aggressive behavior with rapid growth and spread potential
“Prostate cancer evaluation considers both staging and grading,” explains Dr. Xu. “Bone metastasis automatically places it in late-stage, while a Gleason 9 signifies highly malignant cells.”
Three-Phase Diagnostic Process
- PSA screening through blood test
- MRI/PET-guided biopsy for tumor confirmation
- Metastasis detection via full-body imaging
High-Risk Groups
Prostate cancer primarily affects:
- Men aged 60+ (risk increases with age)
- Those with family history (especially first-degree relatives)
- Individuals with BRCA gene mutations
Why Late Detection Occurs
Experts identify key challenges:
- Symptoms mimic benign conditions (frequent urination, blood in urine)
- Early stages often asymptomatic
- Bone pain typically appears only after metastasis
Prevention and Early Detection
Medical recommendations include:
- Annual PSA screening starting at age 50 (45 for high-risk groups)
- Dietary adjustments (reduce red meat, increase tomatoes/cruciferous vegetables)
- Immediate follow-up for PSA levels >4ng/ml
“When detected early, prostate cancer has near 100% 5-year survival,” notes Dr. Xu. “The 8-10 year window from tumor initiation to symptoms makes screening particularly effective.”
Experts emphasize that while some prostate cancers grow slowly, high-grade variants require vigilant monitoring and prompt treatment.
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