Biden Undergoing Evaluation After Cancer Diagnosis
WASHINGTON — Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an advanced form of prostate cancer, his office announced Sunday. The 82-year-old is currently consulting with medical professionals to determine treatment options.
According to the statement, Biden sought medical attention after experiencing urinary symptoms. A subsequent examination revealed a nodule on his prostate. Testing confirmed the presence of cancer, which has since spread to the bone—a condition known as metastatic prostate cancer.
Diagnosis Indicates Aggressive but Treatable Form
Biden’s cancer received a Gleason score of 9, placing it among the most aggressive forms of prostate cancer. While the disease has spread, his medical team noted that the cancer remains hormone-sensitive, making it more responsive to certain therapies that block hormone activity.
“While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management,” his office said.
Prostate cancer that has metastasized is more difficult to eliminate entirely. However, treatments have improved in recent years, and patients with similar diagnoses often live for several years with ongoing care.
Dr. Matthew Smith, an oncologist with Massachusetts General Brigham Cancer Center, explained that most patients in Biden’s condition would be prescribed drug-based treatments rather than undergoing surgery or radiation. “It’s very treatable, but not curable,” he noted.
Biden Thanks Supporters Amid Public Message
On Monday, Biden shared a message on X (formerly Twitter), posting a photo alongside his wife, Jill Biden. He wrote:
“Cancer touches us all. Like so many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places. Thank you for lifting us up with love and support.”
Leaders Across Political Spectrum Offer Support
President Donald Trump expressed sympathy for Biden, writing on social media, “We wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.” Despite their political differences, Trump described the news as saddening.
Vice President Kamala Harris shared her support as well, stating her family was keeping Biden in their prayers. “Joe is a fighter — and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership,” she said.
Former President Barack Obama also weighed in, praising Biden’s past work on cancer research and expressing confidence in his resolve. “Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer in all its forms than Joe,” Obama wrote.
Health Has Been Ongoing Concern for Biden
Biden’s health was a frequent topic of discussion during his presidency, especially after a widely criticized debate performance in June 2024. He ultimately ended his reelection campaign, with Harris becoming the Democratic nominee. Trump won the 2024 election and returned to office after a four-year absence.
Biden has experienced previous health concerns, including removal of a cancerous skin lesion in 2023 and a benign polyp in 2021. His son, Beau Biden, died of brain cancer in 2015—a tragedy that deeply influenced Biden’s focus on cancer initiatives.
In 2022, Biden relaunched the “Cancer Moonshot” project, aiming to reduce cancer deaths by 50% over 25 years.
“This could be an American moment to prove to ourselves and, quite frankly, the world that we can do really big things,” Biden said at the time.
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