On May 18, an 82-year-old man was diagnosed with an advanced form of prostate cancer, following a medical evaluation prompted by new urinary symptoms. His medical team has classified the cancer as high-grade, but still hormone-sensitive — a factor that leaves multiple effective treatment options on the table.
The diagnosis was unexpected. Just a year prior, his routine health screenings had shown no major issues. A small skin lesion detected during a 2023 biopsy had been identified as basal cell carcinoma — a common, slow-growing form of skin cancer. It was successfully removed, and no further complications had arisen until recent urinary changes led to more in-depth testing.
Scans and lab work now reveal that the prostate cancer has spread to certain bones. However, there is currently no sign of cancer in nearby lymph nodes or major organs — a key distinction that significantly influences the treatment strategy.
Doctors are now formulating a comprehensive care plan that includes hormone therapy — typically the first step for this cancer type — along with targeted radiation and additional supportive treatments. The aim is to control the disease while preserving the patient’s quality of life. Given his age and overall condition, the medical team is also weighing his personal values and long-term goals when considering next steps.
