Former President Joe Biden has received an alarming medical diagnosis, revealing he has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones. This significant health update was disclosed by his office on Sunday, stating that Biden’s family is currently evaluating treatment options for a condition that can be managed effectively. “Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule,” the statement from Biden’s personal office revealed. On Friday, doctors confirmed the diagnosis of prostate cancer that has spread to the bones, indicating a more aggressive nature of the disease.
The statement emphasized that the cancer appears to be responsive to hormone therapy, which facilitates effective management of the condition. It further noted, “The President and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians.” This news comes at a critical juncture for Biden, who is 82 years old, as Democrats are grappling with concerns about his ability to run for reelection in 2024, particularly following a lackluster performance in a recent debate.
As Biden navigates this health crisis, his party is embroiled in discussions about the future of the 2024 election. Concerns about Biden’s age and health have intensified, especially after a debate performance that raised eyebrows and led some to question his fitness for office. Notably, other prominent figures within the party chose not to challenge him, which left Vice President Kamala Harris with insufficient time to prepare for her campaign, which ultimately did not succeed.
The publication of several new books has reignited fervent discussions among Democrats regarding Biden’s decision to seek a second term, as well as his mental and physical fitness during his presidency. Notably, there is currently no evidence linking Biden’s cancer diagnosis to the verbal and physical challenges he faced last year, which had prompted public skepticism about his ability to serve another term. If Biden serves a full term, he would be supplanted by Donald Trump, 78, as the oldest president in U.S. history.
In response to the news, Trump expressed his sympathy, stating, “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 we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.” Meanwhile, Harris shared her sentiments on X, expressing that she was “saddened to learn” of Biden’s diagnosis and acknowledging his resilience in facing challenges.
Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers among men, particularly affecting older individuals. While most types of prostate cancer develop slowly and remain confined to the prostate without causing severe harm, some variants can be aggressive and spread rapidly to other parts of the body, including the bones. The pathology report concerning Biden’s condition indicated a Gleason score of 9, where 10 is the highest score, suggesting a significant malignancy in the cancer cells.
William Dahut, the chief scientific officer for the American Cancer Society, explained that a high Gleason score signifies that the cancer cells appear malignant under microscopic examination. He noted that once prostate cancer spreads to the bones, it is generally viewed as non-curable, although there are effective therapies available. “He could definitely live many years with this,” Dahut remarked, highlighting the variability in survival rates for patients with metastatic prostate cancer.
In February 2024, Biden’s physician released a health summary following an annual checkup, declaring no major new concerns and affirming that the president “continues to be fit for duty.” Notably, this summary did not mention any prostate concerns, nor did previous health reports during his presidency. The report included details on other health issues that Biden’s medical team has addressed, such as a stiff gait and sleep apnea, while noting his commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
Otis Brawley, a medical oncologist at Johns Hopkins University, emphasized the need for improved screening tests, as prior prostate exams may not have detected signs of cancer in Biden. The former president's relationship with cancer is deeply personal, having lost his son Beau to brain cancer in 2015 and dedicating much of his career to cancer research and advocacy.
Following the announcement of Biden’s diagnosis, politicians from both parties expressed their support. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) stated, “I am saddened to hear of President Biden’s cancer diagnosis and am wishing him and his family well as he begins treatment.” Senator Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina) echoed these sentiments, expressing his hopes for a full recovery.
This news arrives during a tumultuous period for Biden, who has spent over half a century in politics. Democrats nominated him for the presidency in 2020, believing he had the best chance to defeat Trump. Although Biden did not explicitly promise to serve only one term, many within the party felt it was implied, especially given his description of serving as a “bridge” to the next generation.
In light of his diagnosis, close friends and colleagues, such as Senator Chris Coons (D-Delaware), have expressed their concern and support for Biden as he embarks on this challenging journey. “He’ll lean into and take this treatment and this path forward with the full support of his family and those who have long admired him and his grit,” Coons stated, emphasizing the importance of community support during this time.
