Scott Adams, the 67-year-old creator of the iconic comic strip Dilbert, has announced that he is battling an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones. In a recent YouTube livestream, Adams shared that his prognosis is grim, with doctors estimating he may only have months to live.
A Parallel with Former President Joe Biden
Adams’ revelation comes shortly after former President Joe Biden disclosed a similar diagnosis. Both men are contending with advanced prostate cancer that has spread to their bones, a condition known for its severity and challenging treatment. Adams expressed empathy for Biden, stating, “I have the same cancer that Joe Biden has. I also have prostate cancer that has spread to my bones.” He added, “My life expectancy is maybe this summer,” highlighting the aggressive nature of the disease.
Coping with Daily Struggles
During his livestream, Adams candidly discussed the daily challenges he faces due to his illness. He described enduring constant pain, relying on a walker for mobility, and experiencing worsening discomfort each evening. “The disease is already intolerable. I can tell you that I don’t have good days,” he said. His openness sheds light on the harsh realities faced by those with terminal illnesses.
Advocacy for End-of-Life Options
A long-time supporter of the California End of Life Option Act, Adams reiterated his belief in the right to choose aid-in-dying for terminal patients. He referred to the process as a “civilized option” and indicated that he considers it a viable choice for himself. This stance aligns with his previous advocacy for patient autonomy in end-of-life decisions.
Legacy of ‘Dilbert’ and Beyond
Adams launched Dilbert in 1989 while working at Pacific Bell, quickly gaining acclaim for his satirical take on office culture. The comic strip earned him the National Cartoonists Society’s Reuben Award in 1997 and led to various adaptations, including books and a television series. Beyond Dilbert, Adams authored several novels and nonfiction works and hosted the YouTube series “Real Coffee with Scott Adams.
However, his career faced controversy in 2023 when comments he made on his show led to widespread backlash and the removal of Dilbert from numerous publications. Adams had referred to Black Americans as a “hate group,” a statement he later claimed was hyperbolic but stood by, resulting in significant professional repercussions.
Personal Health Challenges
In addition to his current battle with cancer, Adams has previously spoken about his struggles with neurological disorders, including focal dystonia and spasmodic dysphonia. These conditions have affected his ability to draw and speak, adding to the health challenges he has faced over the years.
A Final Message
Adams chose to go public with his diagnosis following Biden’s announcement, stating that he had already come to terms with his illness. “Once you go public, you’re just the dying cancer guy, and I didn’t want you to have to think about it, and I didn’t want to have to think about it,” he explained. His decision to share his story reflects a desire to connect with others facing similar battles and to advocate for compassionate end-of-life options.
