Joe Biden Diagnosed with Aggressive Prostate Cancer
Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an advanced and aggressive form of prostate cancer that has reportedly spread to his bones. The announcement came in a statement from his personal office on Sunday, confirming that he is currently evaluating treatment options with his medical team.
According to the statement, Biden began experiencing increased urinary symptoms, prompting a medical evaluation that revealed a prostate nodule. Further testing confirmed a diagnosis of prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 9—indicating the most aggressive grade—and metastasis to the bone.
Despite the seriousness of the condition, the cancer is said to be hormone-sensitive, which opens up several effective treatment pathways. Biden, now 82, is currently at his residence in Wilmington, Delaware, where he and his family are reviewing available options with his physicians.
What Does a Gleason Score of 9 Mean?
A Gleason score is used to evaluate the aggressiveness of prostate cancer based on how abnormal the cancer cells look under a microscope. A score of 9 falls into the highest grade group (Grade Group 5), which typically indicates a fast-growing cancer with a higher risk of spreading.
Medical experts not involved in Biden’s treatment have noted that while the spread to bone is serious and not curable, advances in hormone and chemotherapy treatments in recent years have significantly improved outcomes for patients with advanced prostate cancer.
Reaction from Political Figures and Family
The news of Biden’s diagnosis drew swift responses from political figures across party lines. Former President Donald Trump, despite ongoing political rivalry, issued a message of support via social media, extending well-wishes to Biden and his family for a full and speedy recovery.
Vice President Kamala Harris also shared her thoughts, calling Biden a “fighter” and expressing confidence in his resilience. “We know Joe will approach this challenge with the same strength and optimism that have defined his leadership,” she said in a post on X.
Jill Biden, the former first lady, stood firmly by her husband’s side, stating that those questioning his health in the past did not see the dedication and effort he put into his work daily.
Biden’s Longstanding Commitment to Cancer Research
Cancer has long been a personal mission for Joe Biden. His son, Beau Biden, died of brain cancer in 2015 at the age of 46. Following that tragedy, Biden became a passionate advocate for cancer research. In 2016, he led the White House Cancer Moonshot Task Force under President Obama.
In 2022, Biden renewed his commitment by relaunching the Cancer Moonshot initiative, setting a national goal to reduce cancer death rates by 50% within the next 25 years. He has pushed for increased federal funding and innovation in cancer treatment, emphasizing that fighting cancer is both a personal mission and a national priority.
While an aggressive and metastatic cancer diagnosis is undeniably serious, the hormone-sensitive nature of Biden’s illness means there are targeted therapies available that can manage the disease and maintain quality of life. Medical professionals have noted that with the right treatment plan, patients can still lead fulfilling lives even with advanced prostate cancer.
The Biden family continues to receive support and well-wishes from around the country as they face this latest challenge with determination and hope.
