Joe Biden Diagnosed with Aggressive Prostate Cancer That Has Spread to Bones
Former U.S. President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an advanced and aggressive form of prostate cancer, his office announced Sunday. The diagnosis, confirmed last Friday following reports of urinary issues, revealed that the cancer has metastasized to his bones—a serious development in the disease’s progression.
Medical Details and Outlook
Biden’s medical team determined that the cancer is hormone-sensitive, meaning it still responds to therapies that block hormone production—offering a glimmer of hope for treatment and management. His Gleason score was reported as 9 out of 10, placing it among the most aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
While metastasized prostate cancer—especially when it reaches the bones—is typically much harder to treat, doctors remain cautiously optimistic due to the hormone sensitivity. Treatment options such as hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted radiation are being explored. His family is said to be closely involved in consultations.
Political and Public Reactions
The diagnosis has drawn widespread sympathy—even from political adversaries. Former President Donald Trump, Biden’s longtime rival, expressed his concern on social media, writing:
“We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.”
Barack Obama, under whom Biden served as Vice President for eight years, offered heartfelt support:
“Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer in all its forms than Joe… He will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace.”
A Long Battle with Health Concerns
Questions surrounding Biden’s health were long-standing and intensified during his presidency. His cognitive sharpness came under scrutiny, particularly after a poor performance in a June debate while seeking reelection, prompting his eventual withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race. Vice President Kamala Harris stepped in as the Democratic nominee but was defeated by Donald Trump in the general election.
Biden has faced other health issues in the past:
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In 2023, a basal cell carcinoma (a common skin cancer) was removed from his chest.
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In 2021, a benign but potentially pre-cancerous polyp was removed from his colon.
Despite these concerns, Biden had frequently dismissed speculation about his age and condition, though revelations from the recent book Original Sin suggested that aides had worked to conceal the true extent of his decline during his final years in office.
Legacy and the “Cancer Moonshot”
Biden has long been an advocate for cancer research, especially after the tragic death of his son, Beau Biden, from brain cancer in 2015. In 2022, he launched the Cancer Moonshot initiative with the ambitious goal of cutting cancer deaths by 50% over the next 25 years.
Though he currently holds no public office, Biden's commitment to public health and cancer research continues to define much of his post-presidency legacy. The latest health setback has renewed public attention and concern, but also widespread support for a man who has faced personal and political adversity with resilience.
Next Steps
Biden's team has said he is taking time to carefully review treatment options and will share further updates in due course. For now, the former president remains under close medical supervision and is surrounded by family.
