Dave Coulier, the actor best known for his role in the popular television series Full House, has announced that he has been diagnosed with early-stage tongue cancer. This news follows his recent remission from non-Hodgkin lymphoma just months earlier. The diagnosis was confirmed during a routine follow-up PET scan, which revealed a new health concern for the 66-year-old comedian.
In an interview on NBC’s Today show, Coulier detailed how the cancer was identified. He stated, “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 clarified that this new diagnosis is unrelated to his previous battle with lymphoma, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between the two conditions.
Coulier explained that doctors believe his current diagnosis may be linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV), which he contracted up to 30 years ago. “A lot of people carry the HPV virus, but they said mine activated and turned into a carcinoma,” he noted. Despite this challenging news, the actor remains hopeful about his prognosis, citing a curability rate of over 90 percent for early-stage tongue cancer.
Current Treatment and Emotional Impact
Coulier is currently undergoing a treatment plan involving 35 sessions of radiation therapy, set to conclude by December 31, 2023. He described this treatment as “a whole different animal than chemo,” acknowledging that while it may not feel as aggressive, there are still significant side effects.
The emotional toll of two cancer diagnoses has been substantial, particularly for his wife, Melissa Coulier. He reflected on how these experiences have affected their family, but he maintains a positive outlook, stating, “I’m going to get on the other side of this.”
Coulier has also stressed the critical role that early detection has played in his health journey. He remarked, “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, to catch potential health issues early.
As Coulier navigates this new chapter in his health, his resilience and determination shine through. He serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in personal health and the power of hope in the face of adversity.
