Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, as confirmed by a statement released by his office on Sunday afternoon. The diagnosis follows Biden's recent medical evaluations, during which a new prostate nodule was discovered after he reported increasing urinary symptoms. The biopsy results revealed a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), indicating a highly aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to the bone.
The Gleason score of 9 signifies that the cancer cells exhibit significant differences from normal prostate cells, suggesting a rapid growth and spread of the disease. This classification places Biden's cancer in the highest-risk category, Grade Group 5, which is associated with a greater likelihood of metastasis and a more challenging prognosis. However, despite the aggressive nature of this cancer, it is noted to be hormone-sensitive, allowing for more effective management options. The Biden family is currently exploring treatment alternatives with his medical team.
As news of Biden's diagnosis spread, the public and political figures expressed their support. Former President Donald Trump stated he felt saddened by the news, posting on his Truth Social platform, "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."
Former Vice President Kamala Harris also took to social media, sharing that she and her husband, Doug Emhoff, were keeping Biden and his family in their prayers. "Joe is a fighter -- and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership," she wrote on X.
Additionally, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg expressed his support, emphasizing Biden's deep faith and resilience. In a post on X, he stated, "Chasten and I are keeping him, and the entire Biden family, in our prayers for strength and healing."
In a recent update from Biden's spokesperson, it was confirmed that a small nodule was found during a routine physical exam, which prompted further evaluation. This diagnosis follows previous health concerns, including a cancerous lesion that was removed from his chest in February 2023. Before his presidency, Biden had several non-melanoma skin cancers excised through Mohs surgery, with the White House physician, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, confirming that all cancerous tissue was successfully removed.
Biden's health has been a topic of scrutiny, especially after he suspended his presidential campaign in 2024, paving the way for Kamala Harris to lead the Democratic ticket. In a recent appearance on ABC's The View, Biden and Dr. Jill Biden refuted allegations regarding cognitive decline, asserting that there was no evidence to support such claims.
Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). An estimated 313,780 new cases are expected to be diagnosed this year, representing 15.4% of all new cancer cases, with approximately 35,770 deaths attributed to prostate cancer, accounting for 5.8% of all cancer deaths this year.
The five-year relative survival rate for prostate cancer is approximately 98%, indicating a favorable prognosis for many diagnosed individuals. Although prostate cancer generally tends to grow slowly, early detection and treatment can significantly enhance manageability, even in cases where the cancer has spread.
As the nation watches President Biden's journey through this diagnosis, ongoing support and awareness regarding prostate cancer remain crucial in fostering a better understanding of this prevalent disease.
