The diagnosis has stunned the nation.
Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer, according to a statement released by his office. The diagnosis followed reports of urinary issues, which led doctors to discover a nodule on his prostate. Testing confirmed that the cancer had not only developed in the prostate but had also spread to the bones—a more serious and difficult-to-treat stage of the disease.
Despite the aggressive nature of the cancer, which was graded with a high Gleason score of 9, doctors noted that it is hormone-sensitive. This means the cancer may respond to treatments that block or lower hormone levels, which can slow its progression. Experts say while the disease is not curable at this stage, advancements in medical treatments have made it more manageable, with patients often living several years following diagnosis.
Messages of support poured in from across the political spectrum. Former President Donald Trump, despite being a political rival, expressed sympathy and wished Biden a quick recovery. Vice President Kamala Harris described Biden as a fighter, and former President Barack Obama highlighted Biden’s longstanding efforts in cancer research, including his leadership of the “Cancer Moonshot” initiative aimed at drastically reducing cancer deaths.
Throughout his presidency, concerns about Biden’s health and age were frequently raised, especially following a poor debate performance that eventually led him to withdraw from his reelection campaign. His health history includes treatment for skin cancer and the removal of a precancerous polyp. Despite these issues, Biden consistently emphasized his ability to lead and remained active in public service initiatives even after leaving office.
Biden’s recent diagnosis adds a personal layer to his long-standing commitment to cancer research, an effort driven in part by the death of his son Beau from brain cancer in 2015. His administration prioritized cancer treatment and research, aiming to cut cancer death rates in half over 25 years. Biden had called this push an opportunity for America to prove its capacity to take on major challenges and lead the world in medical innovation.
