Actor and comedian Dave Coulier, known for his role in the beloved television series Full House, has announced that he has been diagnosed with early-stage tongue cancer. This revelation follows his recent successful treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma, from which he had entered remission just months prior.
During an appearance on NBC’s Today show, Coulier shared that the cancer was detected during a routine follow-up PET scan. He explained, “I went in for a PET scan, just a routine check-up, and something flared on the PET scan. It turned out that I have P16 squamous carcinoma at the base of my tongue.” He reassured fans that this new diagnosis is unrelated to his previous battle with lymphoma.
Details of the Diagnosis
Coulier, aged 66, revealed that medical professionals indicated his tongue cancer may have been triggered by the human papillomavirus (HPV) he contracted up to 30 years ago. He noted, “A lot of people carry the HPV virus, but they said mine activated and turned into a carcinoma.” Despite the gravity of the situation, he remains hopeful about his prognosis, which boasts a curability rate exceeding 90 percent.
As part of his treatment plan, Coulier is scheduled to undergo 35 radiation sessions, with the final session set to conclude on December 31. He described the treatment as “a whole different animal than chemo,” acknowledging that while it may not feel as aggressive, it still carries significant side effects.
Emotional Impact and Advocacy
The emotional toll of facing two cancer diagnoses in quick succession has affected Coulier and his family, particularly his wife, Melissa. He candidly discussed the challenges they have encountered, yet he maintains a resolute and positive outlook, stating, “I’m going to get on the other side of this.”
Coulier emphasized the importance of early detection, attributing his current situation to timely medical screenings. He stated, “The thing that has really saved my life… is that early detection saved my life, not just the first time but the second time as well.” He encourages others to prioritize regular health screenings, including colonoscopies, prostate exams, and breast exams, as a vital part of preventive health care.
This latest health challenge highlights not only the resilience of Coulier but also serves as a reminder of the critical role early detection plays in the fight against cancer.
