The former President of the U.S., Joe Biden, has been diagnosed with an aggressive type of prostate cancer that has spread to the bones, his office confirmed Sunday. The 82-year-old was seen after worsening urinary symptoms. Physicians found a prostate nodule and subsequently confirmed the cancer with a Gleason score of 9, which is one of the worst ratings. “The cancer seems to be hormone-sensitive,” Biden’s office released, indicating that treatment options are being examined.
Political Leaders Respond
Even with decades of political competition, President Donald Trump reached out to Biden through social media: “Wishing Joe a fast and successful recovery.”
Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who took over as the 2024 Democratic nominee after Biden, also issued a message of solidarity. “Joe is a fighter,” she said. “We’re keeping him in our hearts and prayers.”
Former President Barack Obama also commended Biden’s record in cancer treatments. “No one has done more to advance treatment than Joe. I know he’ll face this with strength and grace.”
Health Questions Resurface
Biden’s health was also a main issue during his last year in office. He withdrew from the 2024 race following a nervous debate performance. The new book, Original Sin, suggests aides attempted to conceal evidence of physical and mental deterioration.
The book outlines Biden having trouble recognising actor George Clooney at a fundraiser and detailing private discussions about requiring a wheelchair.
Earlier this month, Biden pushed back. “There’s nothing to those claims,” he said on The View. “I left the race to avoid dividing the party.”
A Tough Diagnosis
The early stages of prostate cancer have a good survival rate. Once it involves the bones, however, as in Biden’s case, treatment is tougher. The five-year survival rate for advanced prostate cancer is about 28%, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
This diagnosis is another difficult page in Biden’s history; he had already lost his son Beau to brain cancer in 2015. Now, he’s going through a personal fight. But his supporters claim he’s prepared for it. “He’s always been a resilient leader,” said Senator Chris Murphy. “And that’s how he’ll approach this, too.”
Biden’s office claims further information will be given when treatment is initiated. The political community awaits and prays—for healing, and for resilience.
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