As questions about his cognitive health resurface, Joe Biden’s office has revealed a diagnosis of aggressive, hormone-sensitive prostate cancer—reigniting public interest in his post-presidency life and political legacy.
BY PC Bureau
Former U.S. President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer, according to a statement from his office. The diagnosis followed hospital evaluation in Philadelphia, where a “small nodule” was detected.
Further testing revealed a fast-growing cancer that has spread to his bones, representing an advanced stage. According to Zero Prostate Cancer, this metastatic stage is seen in approximately 60% of cases.
Early prostate cancer symptoms, as outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO), can include reduced urine flow, dribbling, frequent nighttime urination, and blood in the urine. These symptoms can resemble benign prostate enlargement, necessitating biopsy and Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) testing for definitive diagnosis.
Biden’s Prostate Cancer Has Spread to Bones, Treatment Underway
“Melania and I are saddened to hear about @JoeBiden’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.” –President Donald J. Trump 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/6HjermTGK7
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) May 18, 2025
Advanced-stage symptoms, indicating metastasis, may involve bone pain (particularly in the hips, back, or thighs), unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
Spokesperson Kelly Scully confirmed Biden’s cancer has a Gleason score of 9, indicating a highly aggressive form. However, doctors believe it is hormone-sensitive, potentially responding to hormone therapy, which aims to limit testosterone production.
Standard treatments for advanced prostate cancer include hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination. Hormone therapy can slow disease progression, while chemotherapy may be used for resistant or spreading cancer.
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Biden’s diagnosis occurs amidst ongoing scrutiny regarding his age and cognitive health. Recent discussions have focused on a forthcoming book alleging aides concealed signs of mental decline, and the release of audio from a 2023 interview with special counsel Robert Hur, who described Biden as “an elderly man with a poor memory.” This has fueled debate among Democrats about his potential 2024 presidential candidacy.
Since leaving office, Biden has maintained a lower public profile, with occasional appearances. Recent interviews, including a segment on ABC’s “The View,” have included questions about his age and health.
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Personal Context:
Biden’s personal history includes the 2015 death of his son Beau from brain cancer, which influenced his “Cancer Moonshot” initiative as president, aimed at increasing cancer research funding.
Despite the diagnosis, his medical team is optimistic due to the cancer’s hormone-sensitive nature. Biden and his family are currently reviewing treatment options.