Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, according to an official statement released by his personal office.
On Friday, doctors confirmed that 82-year-old Joe Biden has prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5)—a marker indicating one of the most severe and aggressive forms of the disease. The cancer has also spread to his bones, placing him in a high-risk category.
“While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management,” the statement added.
Biden and his family are currently reviewing treatment options with his medical team. Hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted treatments may be considered depending on how the disease responds over the coming weeks.
Despite the seriousness of the condition, experts emphasize that advancements in cancer treatment have significantly improved survival and quality of life for many patients with advanced prostate cancer.
Understanding Prostate Cancer: Expert Insight
According to Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, a urologist at Orlando Health, “Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, especially as they age.” While not involved in Biden’s care, Dr. Brahmbhatt noted that many men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime, though not all forms are life-threatening.
Dr. Benjamin Davies of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, who also is not treating Biden, explained that a Gleason score of 9 reflects a highly aggressive cancer, but newer treatments provide hope even for advanced cases.
Health concerns surrounding Biden have been a recurring topic, particularly during and after the 2024 U.S. presidential election. In February 2024, a routine physical at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center declared him “fit for duty,” with no major health concerns at the time.
National and Global Reactions to Biden’s Diagnosis
Messages of support have poured in from political leaders across party lines. Former President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social:
“Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis. We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family and wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.”
Vice President Kamala Harris, now leading the Democratic campaign, also expressed support:
“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.”
Former President Barack Obama and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton echoed these sentiments, highlighting Biden’s legacy in the fight against cancer.
Biden’s Longstanding Battle Against Cancer
Cancer has deeply affected the Biden family. In 2015, Biden’s son, Beau Biden, died of brain cancer at just 46. This personal tragedy inspired Biden’s commitment to cancer research and treatment innovation.
As vice president, Biden spearheaded the Obama administration’s Cancer Moonshot initiative, a program aimed at dramatically reducing cancer deaths. In 2022, he renewed the initiative with a goal to cut cancer deaths by at least 50% over the next 25 years.
While Biden’s diagnosis is serious, experts remain cautiously optimistic due to recent advances in cancer care. Targeted therapies, hormone treatments, and personalized care plans offer hope for maintaining quality of life.
Dr. Brahmbhatt emphasized that although metastatic prostate cancer is not curable, many patients continue to lead fulfilling lives with proper treatment and management.
As the nation watches closely, President Biden’s battle with cancer highlights both the fragility of health and the strength of human resilience. His legacy as a champion for cancer research may yet influence the very treatment he now receives.
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