Dave Coulier Faces New Cancer Battle After Previous Recovery
Dave Coulier, known for his role in Full House, has disclosed a second cancer diagnosis following his earlier recovery from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He now prepares for an intensive course of radiation therapy.
Dave Coulier, best recognised for his portrayal of Uncle Joey in the much-loved sitcom Full House, has shared news of a fresh health challenge. After overcoming non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma earlier in 2024, the actor has now been diagnosed with a different type of cancer. During a recent appearance on the Today Show, Coulier explained that a routine medical examination in October led to the discovery of 16 squamous cell carcinomas located at the base of his tongue.
Unexpected Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
He revealed that he is scheduled to undergo 35 sessions of radiation therapy before the year concludes. The actor noted that the cancer may have originated from an HPV infection contracted decades ago.
“A lot of people carry the HPV virus, but they said mine activated and turned into a carcinoma.”
Coulier’s experience with the virus ultimately resulted in the development of tongue cancer, a situation he described with a mix of disbelief and candour.
Last year, Coulier was diagnosed with Stage 3 non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a form of blood cancer. He celebrated being declared free of the disease in March. Addressing the relationship between his previous illness and the new diagnosis, he recounted,
“It turned out that I have P16 squamous carcinoma at the base of my tongue. So I said to the doctors, ‘Well, did this happen because of the lymphoma?’ And they said, ‘Totally unrelated.’”
Prognosis and Importance of Early Detection
The prognosis for this new cancer is encouraging, with Coulier sharing that it carries a 90 per cent curability rate. He emphasised the critical role of timely medical intervention, stating,
“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 urged others to prioritise regular health screenings, adding,
“So I hope you’re getting your check-ups. I hope you get your colonoscopies and breast exams and prostate exams, they will save your life.”
Looking Ahead to Recovery
With a new course of treatment ahead, Coulier remains optimistic. He mentioned that his medical team is moving swiftly to begin radiation, with hopes that the most challenging phase will be behind him by the start of the new year.
“The doctor said the prognosis is good, but we’re going to start radiation immediately.”
He reflected on the differences between his current therapy and previous chemotherapy, noting,
“It’s a whole different animal than chemo. It doesn’t feel as aggressive, but there are still side effects.”
Coulier’s career has spanned all 192 episodes of Full House, and he later returned for the 2016 reboot, Fuller House, which ran for five series. His openness about his health journey has resonated with many, highlighting the significance of vigilance and early action in facing serious illness.