WASHINGTON, D.C. – Despite facing complications following a prostatectomy in late December, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s medical team remains optimistic about his prognosis. The 70-year-old underwent minimally invasive surgery to treat prostate cancer, but subsequent issues led to his rehospitalization and admission to intensive care on New Year’s Day.
According to doctors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Austin’s complications arose from a fluid buildup affecting the function of his small intestines. After draining the fluid, the medical team expressed confidence in his recovery, noting that progress is being made.
Prostate cancer, the second most common cancer in American men, has an overall positive survival rate, especially when detected early. Austin’s cancer was identified through a blood test, allowing for timely surgical intervention. Dr. Oliver Sartor, Chief of the Genitourinary Cancer Disease Group at the Mayo Clinic, emphasized that the surgery to remove the prostate substantially reduces the risk of mortality in the next five years.
While prostate cancer tends to progress slowly, it disproportionately affects Black men, who are 70% more likely to be diagnosed and more than twice as likely to die from the disease compared to their White counterparts. Medical experts urge increased awareness and early screening, especially for Black men.
Dr. Michael Stifelman, Chief of Urology at Hackensack University Medical Center, commented on the rarity of complications similar to Austin’s, estimating them to occur in about 2% of surgical cases. He explained that fluid buildup could result from the delicate reconnection of the urethra during a prostatectomy, removal of lymph nodes, or general tissue removal.
Despite the setback, Austin’s medical team assures the public of his full recovery and acknowledges that the road to complete health may be a gradual process. As the Defense Secretary continues his journey to wellness, the incident prompts increased awareness about prostate cancer screening and its particular impact on Black men.