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News that former President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an “aggressive” form of prostate cancer sent shockwaves across the nation this week.
While the overall five-year survival rate for prostate cancer is an impressive 97%, that number plunges to just 37% once the disease spreads to other parts of the body, according to the American Cancer Society.
In the wake of Biden’s bombshell announcement, Dr. David Shusterman, a board-certified urologist and founder of Modern Urologist, is offering support to New Yorkers.
Shusterman is providing free prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests — a key screening tool for prostate cancer — at his Midtown East office through the end of June.
Patients don’t need insurance for the initial test, though follow-up care may be necessary if PSA levels come back elevated.
Men interested in getting screened can call (212) 991-9991 to book an appointment.
“In the time it takes to check your phone, your provider can perform a screening that could make a significant difference to your future health,” Shusterman told The Post. “Take pride in taking that step.”
Prostate cancer 101
Biden’s diagnosis was front-page news, but prostate cancer is no rarity. It’s the second most common cancer among men in the US, with 1 in 8 expected to face it at some point in their lifetime, according to the National Institutes of Health.
And it’s deadly serious, ranking second only to lung cancer in cancer-related deaths among American men.
While prostate cancer can strike at any age, the risk climbs with every birthday. Most cases are diagnosed after age 65.
Some men face even steeper odds. Black men are disproportionately affected and are more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age with more aggressive forms of the disease than other racial or ethnic groups.
Adding to the danger? Prostate cancer often grows slowly and has no symptoms in the early stages, meaning many men go years without knowing they have it.
When symptoms do emerge, they can mimic other common prostate problems, like an enlarged prostate or prostatitis, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Possible early warning signs include:
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Frequent urination
- Trouble starting to pee
- Waking up often at night to urinate
Once the cancer advances, symptoms can get more serious:
- Accidental leaking of urine
- Back or bone pain
- Erectile dysfunction
- Extreme fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness in the arms or legs
Doctors diagnosed Biden after he began experiencing “increasing urinary symptoms,” according to his personal office. A physical exam revealed a “small nodule” on his prostate, leading to further evaluation.
When to get checked
Prostate cancer can be stealthy, but early screening gives doctors the best chance of catching it when it’s most treatable. Once the disease spreads to the bones, as in Biden’s case, it becomes incurable.
Experts recommend men start screening conversations with their doctors at age 50. But if you’re black or have a family history, start those discussions at 40 or 45.
Most health organizations don’t advise screening past 70 because the potential benefits are unlikely to outweigh the harms.
A prostate cancer screening typically includes a PSA blood test — elevated levels can be a sign of prostate inflammation, enlargement or cancer — and a digital rectal exam.
“This is the part that causes the most anxiety, but it’s brief and generally painless,” Shusterman said.
“An ultrasound tech inserts a small, lubricated probe into the rectum to visualize the prostate gland for the exact size and shape and any irregularities, such as prostate growth, into the bladder.”
Tips for first screenings
“It’s completely normal to feel uneasy about your first prostate exam — but it’s a sign of maturity and self-care to go through with it,” Shusterman said. Here are his tips for men undergoing their first screenings.
- Don’t overthink it: It’s a quick exam that can yield life-saving information.
- Express any concerns to your doctor: A good provider will explain each step and help reduce fear of the unknown.
- Schedule wisely: Choose a time when you’re not rushed or stressed, such as earlier in the day.
- Wear comfortable clothing: It makes undressing and redressing easier.
- Empty your bowels beforehand: This can make the prostate exam more comfortable.
- Bring support: If allowed, have a friend or partner come to the appointment to ease tension.
- Practice deep breathing: Even a few calming breaths in the waiting room can lower stress levels.
- Focus on the facts: Millions of men go through this. It’s routine, and medical professionals do it all the time without judgment.
English (US)