Former President Joe Biden’s aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 and bone metastasis, represents a serious health challenge for the 82-year-old just months after leaving the White House.
Key Takeaways
- Biden has been diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer (Gleason score 9, Grade Group 5) with bone metastasis following a May 16 evaluation.
- The cancer is hormone-sensitive, which offers some treatment options despite the advanced stage.
- At 82 years old, Biden faces significant health challenges, though his family is currently reviewing potential treatment approaches.
- President Trump, former Vice President Harris, and other political figures have expressed support and well-wishes for Biden.
- Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer death in this population.
Biden’s Serious Cancer Diagnosis
Former President Joe Biden is facing a significant health challenge following a diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer. The diagnosis came on May 16 after Biden reported increasing urinary symptoms, leading to the discovery of a small nodule in his prostate during what was intended to be a routine physical examination. Medical evaluations revealed a Gleason score of 9, corresponding to Grade Group 5, indicating a highly aggressive form of the disease that has already spread to the bone. This metastasis significantly complicates the prognosis and limits treatment options for the 82-year-old former president.
The timing of this diagnosis comes less than four months after Biden left office, following a term marked by persistent questions about his age and health. Throughout his presidency, Biden was the oldest person to ever serve in that role, and concerns about his physical and cognitive capabilities frequently surfaced. This cancer diagnosis adds another dimension to those health concerns, particularly given the aggressive nature of the disease and Biden’s advanced age, which can complicate treatment decisions and potentially limit therapeutic options.
Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer at age 82. Here's what to know about the disease, its symptoms and treatments. https://t.co/ZfFT6e2qi9
— CBS News (@CBSNews) May 18, 2025
Treatment Options and Medical Implications
Despite the serious nature of Biden’s diagnosis, medical experts note that the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, potentially allowing for effective management through targeted therapies. When prostate cancer has metastasized to the bone, as in Biden’s case, surgical intervention is typically not considered a viable option. Instead, Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT), commonly known as hormone therapy, becomes the primary approach to manage symptoms and slow disease progression. Biden’s family is currently reviewing various treatment options with his medical team.
“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. We are hopeful for a full and speedy recovery.” said Former Vice President Kamala Harris.
This is not Biden’s first encounter with cancer. In February 2023, he had a cancerous lesion removed from his chest, and prior to entering office, he had several non-melanoma skin cancers removed. However, the current diagnosis represents a significantly more serious health challenge. The American Cancer Society emphasizes that while the five-year relative survival rate for prostate cancer overall is approximately 98%, this rate varies substantially based on the stage and aggressiveness of the disease, with metastatic cases having a less favorable outlook.
We are deeply saddened to learn Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Our thoughts and well wishes for strength and healing are with the Biden family as they navigate this incredibly difficult time.
According to a statement… pic.twitter.com/uWME49BmOH
— ZERO Prostate Cancer (@ZEROCancer) May 18, 2025
Political Response and Public Reaction
The announcement of Biden’s diagnosis has generated expressions of support from across the political spectrum. Political figures, including those who were once his strongest critics, have put aside partisan differences to offer their well-wishes. President Donald Trump was among those extending sympathies to Biden and his family during this difficult time, demonstrating that some moments transcend the usual political divisions that characterize American public life. The response highlights how serious health challenges can momentarily unite even the most divided political landscape.
“First Lady] 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.” said President Donald Trump.
Biden’s diagnosis also serves as a sobering reminder of the prevalence of prostate cancer in America. According to medical statistics, an estimated 313,780 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in 2023, with approximately 35,770 deaths expected from the disease. The American Cancer Society has expressed concern about increasing diagnoses of advanced prostate cancer, emphasizing the critical importance of early detection. For many Americans following this news, Biden’s high-profile case may increase awareness about the importance of regular screening and early intervention for this common but potentially deadly disease.
