Former US President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. His office confirmed the news on Sunday. The 82-year-old sought medical attention last week after experiencing ongoing urinary symptoms. Doctors confirmed on Friday that he has a malignant tumor in his prostate. The cancer has a Gleason score of 9 out of 10, which means it is highly aggressive and likely to spread quickly.
Biden’s medical team said the cancer responds well to hormone-based therapies. This type of treatment usually helps control the disease. After tests showed worsening symptoms, doctors found a prostate nodule and diagnosed metastatic prostate cancer. Although the diagnosis is serious, doctors are hopeful due to the cancer’s sensitivity to hormone therapy, which allows for personalized treatment plans.
Political leaders from different parties expressed their support. Former President Donald Trump sent wishes for Biden’s recovery on his social media platform. Vice President Kamala Harris called Biden a fighter and praised his strength. Barack Obama highlighted Biden’s work in cancer research and expressed confidence in his ability to face the illness. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also sent his well wishes to Biden and his family.
This news comes almost a year after Biden ended his 2024 presidential campaign. Concerns about his health and age influenced his decision. After a weak debate performance against Donald Trump, Biden stepped aside and Kamala Harris became the Democratic nominee.
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men, after skin cancer. In the United States, 13 out of every 100 men will develop prostate cancer at some point in their lives. Age is the main risk factor for this disease. A leading oncologist explained that since Biden’s cancer has spread to the bones, it may not be curable. However, many patients respond well to treatment and can live for years with proper care. Hormone therapy is expected to be the first step to control the cancer and manage symptoms.
Since leaving the presidency, Biden has kept a low public profile. He has made only a few appearances, including a speech at a disability rights event in April and an interview in May, where he talked about his decision to end his presidential campaign.
Biden has long been a strong advocate for cancer research. In 2022, he and First Lady Jill Biden relaunched a national cancer research program aiming to reduce cancer deaths by half by 2047. His commitment is personal, as his eldest son, Beau, died of brain cancer in 2015. This loss has motivated Biden’s ongoing fight against cancer.
Joe Biden’s diagnosis is a significant health challenge, but with proper treatment, there is hope he can manage the illness. Support from political and world leaders reflects the respect for him during this difficult time. His work on cancer research remains an important part of his legacy.