Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an “aggressive form” of prostate cancer, according to an official statement released by his personal office on Sunday. The diagnosis revealed that the cancer has spread to his bones, raising significant concerns about his health. “Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms,” the statement detailed. It went on to confirm the diagnosis of prostate cancer, which was characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), indicating a serious and aggressive form of the disease.
The statement further explained, “While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management.” This aspect of the diagnosis provides a glimmer of hope as it suggests that treatment options may be available. President Biden, who is 82 years old, along with his family, is currently in the process of reviewing treatment options with his medical team. Sources indicate that he is resting at his home in Wilmington, Delaware, over the weekend.
In the wake of this concerning news, CNN has reached out to inquire about the specific location where the former president is receiving treatment. This announcement follows recent evaluations where a spokesperson indicated that Biden had been assessed for a “small nodule” found on his prostate. The health of the nation’s oldest sitting president has been a topic of concern throughout his administration, particularly following a notably halting debate performance against Donald Trump last June.
Earlier this year, in February 2024, President Biden underwent a comprehensive physical examination at Walter Reed National Military Center. Dr. Kevin O’Connor, Biden’s physician, had reported at that time that there were “no new concerns” regarding his health, affirming that he was “fit for duty.” Since leaving the White House, Biden has maintained a relatively low public profile but has gradually started to reengage with the public. He made a recent appearance on ABC’s “The View,” where he firmly addressed allegations regarding his cognitive decline during the latter part of his presidency, stating, “They are wrong. There is nothing to sustain that.”
This story will continue to be updated as more information becomes available regarding President Biden's health and treatment options. CNN’s Arlette Saenz has contributed to this report, ensuring that the public stays informed about the former president’s condition.