The 82-year-old Democrat’s cancer has spread to his bones but is hormone-sensitive, offering treatment options; global leaders and former colleagues express support
May 19, 2025: Washington: Former US President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, his office announced on Sunday. The diagnosis followed symptoms of urinary discomfort and the detection of a prostate nodule during recent medical evaluations.
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In a public statement, Biden’s team confirmed that although the cancer is advanced—marked by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5)—it remains hormone-sensitive, which opens avenues for management and treatment. “The President and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians,” the statement said.
Biden says that his mother using windshield wipers to "get literally the oil slick off the window" is "why I and so damn many other people have cancer." pic.twitter.com/YIoBlZadRJ
— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) July 20, 2022
Biden’s diagnosis brings back painful memories for his family. His son, Beau Biden, died from brain cancer in 2015.
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According to the American Cancer Society, a Gleason score of 9 denotes a highly abnormal and aggressive cancer. While prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, it is also the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths.
Reactions Pour In
Former political rivals and colleagues expressed concern and extended well-wishes:
- Donald Trump, Biden’s 2020 and 2024 election opponent, said he was “saddened” by the news and wished Biden a “fast and successful recovery.”
- Kamala Harris, Biden’s Vice President and the 2024 Democratic nominee after his withdrawal, said, “Joe is a fighter… we are hopeful for a full and speedy recovery.”
- Barack Obama, under whom Biden served as Vice President, wrote, “Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer… I am certain he will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace.”
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Political Ramifications and Health Speculation
Biden exited the 2024 presidential race last July after a widely criticized debate performance against Trump, raising fresh doubts about his health and cognitive sharpness. His diagnosis is expected to renew discussions around his decision to seek re-election, despite mounting internal party concerns.
Speculation is also reigniting over an old remark from 2022, where Biden mentioned he “had cancer” during a speech in Massachusetts. The White House had later clarified that he was referring to non-melanoma skin cancer removed prior to his presidency.
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