What To Know About Prostate Cancer— Your Risk, Screenings & Treatment Options

June 13, 2025

As reported widely in the media, former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer, which is an “aggressive” form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. The news brought to light many more questions for men and their loved ones about prostate cancer; who is at risk, when to get screened, and what are the treatment options.

The American Cancer Society released this statement, “This news is a reminder about the tragic impact of prostate cancer in the US, where about 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed over their lifetime with prostate cancer. Although it is a highly survivable disease when caught in early stages, it is the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Early detection is key, and we are concerned given the 5% year-over-year increase in diagnosis of men with more advanced disease. We can and must do more to prevent late-stage diagnosis and death from prostate cancer. American Cancer Society is increasing efforts in the progress against prostate cancer and removing barriers to early detection is critical.”

Said Mason City Clinic board certified urologist Dr. Christopher Adams, “Prostate cancer is the most common visceral cancer in men, second in cause of cancer death only behind lung cancer. In fact, nearly the same amount of men die of prostate cancer per year as women die of breast cancer.” 

In 2025, 313,780 men in U.S. will be diagnosed with prostate cancer; 35,770 men will die from it

According to the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Facts & Figures, 2025, an estimated 313,780 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S., and 35,770 men will die from the disease this year. 

Key statistics:

• Age: The majority of cases are diagnosed in men aged 65 to 74, with a median age at diagnosis of 66 years. 
• Survival: The 5-year relative survival rate for prostate cancer diagnosed in its earliest stages is over 99%, according to ZERO Prostate Cancer. 
• Early Diagnosis About 70% of cases are diagnosed at the localized stage. 
• Higher Risk: Black men are at a higher risk for prostate cancer than other

When to get screened:

“The American Urological Association recommends screening for prostate cancer for men 50-69 years old, and if there’s a strong family history of prostate cancer or additional risk factors, a male can begin screening in his mid-late 40’s. Prostate cancer is a type of cancer where you can actually detect it early,” said Adams.

“PSA screening after age 70 is controversial. However, if longevity runs in the family or a male over the age of 70 expects to have a life expectancy greater than 10 years, screening may be extended. This is an informed decision between the patient and provider,” said Adams.

“Even in the setting of metastatic prostate cancer, the treatment options are durable and effective. Depending on the specifics, life expectancy with advance treatments can extend life several years,” said Adams.

Screening Tests for Prostate Cancer

• Digital Exam: A digital rectal exam is performed by a primary care physician or urologist who will insert their finger into a man’s rectum to feel the prostate. This screening test takes only a few seconds. The doctor is looking for any abnormalities that may be  suggestive of cancer.

• PSA Test:  PSA stands for Prostate-Specific Antigen. PSA is a chemical that is made by the prostate and it is the only organ in the body that makes this chemical. A blood draw and test will reveal if the PSA levels are abnormal which can indicate an early sign of prostate cancer.

Prostate Cancer Treatments

Prostate cancer treatments depend on cancer stage, risk level, and overall health. Common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery, such as radical prostatectomy remove the entire prostate gland. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells, either externally or through brachytherapy. Hormone therapy blocks or lowers testosterone, which can fuel prostate cancer growth. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells, and is often used for advanced or metastatic prostate cancer. 

Prostate Cancer Prevention

While there’s no guaranteed way to completely prevent prostate cancer, adopting a healthy lifestyle and discussing potential risks with your doctor can significantly reduce your chances. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and limiting alcohol consumption.

If you would like to schedule an appointment to talk with a urologist about your prostate health, please contact Mason City Clinic’s Urology department at 641.494.5280, or go to https://mcclinic.com/services/urology/