President Biden’s diagnosis of localized prostate cancer, which he disclosed yesterday, highlights the issue. Biden, 82, had a high Gleason score, a measure of how aggressive the cancer is. His doctors said he would undergo radiation treatment for several weeks and that the cancer had not spread outside his prostate.
The American Cancer Society estimates that 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, and that it is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men, after lung cancer. But the disease is highly treatable if caught early. Biden’s case, experts say, could help raise awareness about the importance of screening — and the potential benefits of early detection. Read more from STAT’s Andrew Joseph.
What to read around the web today
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Lauren
After years of debate and controversy surrounding the PSA test for prostate cancer screening, experts now generally agree that the benefits of the test outweigh the harms. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force originally recommended against routine PSA screening for men of all ages due to concerns about overdiagnosis and overtreatment. However, in a significant shift, the task force later revised its recommendation to encourage men between the ages of 55 to 69 to have a conversation with their doctor about the PSA test.
Despite this change in recommendation, there has been a concerning trend in the diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer. Data from a JAMA Network Open paper and the SEER database revealed a 4 to 6% annual increase in advanced prostate cancer diagnoses, a trend that continued through 2018 when the task force updated its guidance on PSA testing.
The increase in advanced prostate cancer diagnoses highlights the importance of early detection and screening for this common cancer. While the PSA test is not without its limitations and controversies, it remains a valuable tool in the detection of prostate cancer. Men should discuss the benefits and risks of PSA testing with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their prostate health.
– KFF Health News reports on the potential risks of emulsifiers in food and their impact on the gut microbiome.
– The New York Times covers a new system aimed at saving injured brains and lives, particularly in cases of traumatic brain injury.
– A study highlighted by STAT shows that risk scores can accurately predict heart attacks, with CT scans further improving their accuracy.
– NPR discusses the world’s first pandemic treaty and its potential impact on global health.
– Another study highlighted by STAT reveals that mental health apps can improve outcomes and reduce costs for individuals seeking mental health support.
These diverse health topics underscore the importance of staying informed about the latest developments in healthcare and making proactive choices to protect and improve our well-being. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance on your health journey.
