Former US President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. This was confirmed in a statement from his personal office on Sunday. Despite the seriousness of the diagnosis, doctors say the cancer is hormone-sensitive and can be managed with treatment.
What Did the Doctors Say?
Joe Biden was examined after noticing increased urinary symptoms. Tests found a prostate nodule, and on Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. His cancer has a Gleason score of 9, which means it is a very aggressive type.
The cancer has also spread to his bones, a condition called metastasis. However, because the cancer responds to hormone therapy, doctors believe it can be treated effectively.
Biden and his family are currently reviewing treatment options with his medical team.
Biden’s Message to the Public
In a post on social media platform X, Biden shared a hopeful message: “Cancer touches us all.” He added that he and his wife, Jill Biden, have learned to be “strongest in the broken places” and thanked people for their support.
What Is Prostate Cancer and What Does Gleason Score Mean?
Prostate cancer is very common, especially in older men. According to Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, a urologist, many men develop small cancer cells as they age.
The Gleason score measures how aggressive the cancer cells look under a microscope. A score of 9 means the cancer is fast-growing and more serious, but newer treatments have improved the chances of managing such cases.
Biden’s Health Concerns During 2024 Election
Biden’s health and age were topics of discussion during the 2024 presidential race. At 82, he is the oldest president in US history. Earlier physicals showed he was fit for duty, but concerns grew after moments like his difficult debate performance against current President Donald Trump in June 2024.
A new book revealed some aides had worries about his health, but Biden has pushed back against claims of cognitive decline, saying those reports are wrong. Jill Biden also defended his work ethic and mental sharpness.
Support and Reactions from Leaders
Even political opponents have shown support. Current President Donald Trump expressed sympathy for Biden and wished him a speedy recovery.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris called Biden “a fighter” and said she and her husband are keeping the Biden family in their prayers.
Other leaders like Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton praised Biden’s long fight against cancer and offered their well-wishes.
What Treatment Options Are There?
While the cancer has spread to the bones and cannot be cured, recent advances in hormone and chemotherapy treatments have helped many patients live longer with good quality of life.
Doctors will carefully choose treatments to avoid side effects that affect memory, mood, or overall wellbeing.
Biden’s Role in Fighting Cancer
Cancer has been a personal issue for Biden. His son Beau died from brain cancer in 2015. During his presidency, Biden led the Cancer Moonshot initiative, aiming to reduce cancer deaths by 50% over 25 years.
Biden’s work has helped boost cancer research funding and support for patients and families.