KATHMANDU, May 19: Former US President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an “aggressive form” of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, CNN reported Sunday, citing a statement from his personal office.
The statement revealed that Biden, 82, had recently undergone evaluation after experiencing worsening urinary symptoms. “Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule... On Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone,” the statement read.
While this is a serious and aggressive form of the disease, the cancer is reportedly hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective treatment options. Biden and his family are currently consulting with physicians to determine the best course of action, according to the statement.
The announcement follows a recent update from Biden’s spokesperson that he had been evaluated for a “small nodule” on his prostate.
Presidential folly
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men. “As we get older, most men are going to have little cancer cells in them,” Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, a urologist at Orlando Health and Assistant Professor at the University of Central Florida, told CNN. He is not involved in Biden’s treatment.
Dr. Benjamin Davies, a professor of urologic oncology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, also told CNN that a Gleason score of 9 “means it’s the most aggressive form of prostate cancer.”
Biden is currently at his home in Wilmington, Delaware, a source familiar with the situation told CNN. The network has inquired about where he is receiving treatment.
Biden’s health had been a point of concern during his presidency, particularly in the 2024 campaign. His performance during a June 2024 debate with Donald Trump fueled speculation about cognitive decline and contributed to his decision to exit the race three weeks later.
Earlier, in February 2024, Biden underwent a physical at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. His physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, reported at the time that there were “no new concerns” and said Biden was “fit for duty.”
A new book by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Axios’ Alex Thompson outlines instances of Biden’s perceived cognitive decline, including aides allegedly discussing the need for a wheelchair during a potential second term and reports that Biden did not recognize actor George Clooney at a June 2024 fundraiser.
Despite his retirement from politics, Biden has slowly returned to public life. He appeared with first lady Jill Biden on ABC’s The View earlier this month, where he pushed back on claims of mental decline, saying, “They are wrong. There is nothing to sustain that.” Jill Biden added that critics had not seen firsthand how hard he continued to work.
President Donald Trump put political rivalry aside on Sunday, posting on Truth Social: “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, who took over the Democratic ticket following Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 race, also issued a statement on X: “Doug and I are saddened to learn of President Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis. We are keeping him, Dr. Biden, and their entire family in our hearts and prayers during this time. 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.”
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