Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an “aggressive form” of prostate cancer, spreading to his bones, as revealed by a statement from his personal office on Sunday.
The statement read, “Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms. On Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone.”
Despite its aggressive nature, the cancer is reportedly hormone-sensitive, which allows for potential effective management. Biden, at age 82, is currently reviewing treatment options alongside his family and physicians.
This announcement comes shortly after a spokesperson indicated Biden was under evaluation for a “small nodule” on his prostate.
Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, a urologist, emphasized that prostate cancer is fairly common, stating, “As we age, it’s common for most men to develop small cancer cells.
” Though not involved in Biden’s medical care, Dr. Benjamin Davies from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center added, “A Gleason score of 9 is considered the most aggressive form of prostate cancer.”
Currently residing at his home in Wilmington, Delaware, Biden’s exact treatment location remains undisclosed.
Health Concerns During Biden’s 2024 Campaign
Biden’s age and health were focal points throughout his presidency, with doubts amplified following his June debate against Donald Trump. In 2024, a physical at Walter Reed National Military Center reflected no new health concerns according to his doctor, Kevin O’Connor, certifying he was “fit for duty.”
A book by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Axios’ Alex Thompson shed light on Biden’s perceived decline, which reportedly led to discussions about his need for a wheelchair during his second term and an incident where Biden failed to recognize movie star George Clooney at a fundraiser.
Despite stepping away from public office, Biden stands firm against suggestions of cognitive decline. Recently appearing on ABC’s “The View,” alongside his wife Jill Biden, he dismissed such claims, stating confidently, “They are wrong.
There is nothing to sustain that.” Jill Biden supported her husband, asserting, “Those book authors weren’t with us daily. Joe worked tirelessly.”
Amidst Trump’s ongoing critiques, he expressed his well-wishes to Biden after learning of the diagnosis on Truth Social, stating, “Melania and I extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family.” Vice President Kamala Harris echoed these sentiments, describing Biden as a fighter in her message of support on X.
The Seriousness of Prostate Cancer
Determining the cancer’s progression involves examining prostate-specific antigen levels, imaging tests, and biopsy findings, alongside the Gleason score.
Even high-risk prostate cancer patients can lead normal lives if treated properly, Dr. Brahmbhatt noted. Such treatments are individualized, encompassing options like hormone therapy or chemotherapy.
Dr. Davies elaborated, “Bone metastasis is serious and incurable,” though newer hormonal and chemotherapy therapies offer compelling results by significantly extending patients’ longevity.
Choosing the right treatment could take “a few weeks,” and Dr. Brahmbhatt highlights the careful balance required to avoid overly aggressive approaches that could affect memory, mood, or life quality.
Biden’s Legacy in Cancer Research
Biden’s been personally impacted by cancer, mourning his son Beau’s passing from brain cancer in 2015. Under Barack Obama’s administration in 2016, Biden led the White House’s taskforce to cure cancer, expressing optimism for future breakthroughs.
The “Cancer Moonshot” initiative relaunch in 2022 sought to cut U.S. cancer deaths by 50% in 25 years, with Biden remarking, “We are mobilizing the entire country to cut cancer deaths in half over the next 20 to 25 years and increase patient and family support.” Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama commended Biden’s relentless efforts in their heartfelt messages on X, wishing him a full recovery.
