Former President Joe Biden has recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer, described in an official statement released by his personal office on Sunday as an “aggressive form” of the disease that has metastasized to his bones. At the age of 82, Biden and his family are reportedly reviewing various treatment options with his medical team as they navigate this challenging health crisis.
The statement revealed critical details about Biden’s condition, indicating that he was evaluated last week following the discovery of a prostate nodule. This decision came after he experienced increasing urinary symptoms, highlighting an urgent need for medical assessment. Upon diagnosis on Friday, the cancer was classified with a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), a rating that designates a more aggressive tumor. The medical team noted, however, that even though this form of cancer is aggressive, it appears to be hormone-sensitive, suggesting there could be viable treatment pathways available for management.
Currently, Biden is residing at his home in Wilmington, Delaware, and sources indicate that he has not made public his treatment location. The media outlet CNN has sought clarity regarding where the former president is receiving his care. This health update comes shortly after a spokesperson disclosed that Biden had undergone a recent evaluation for a small prostate nodule, raising public concerns over his health and age.
Throughout his presidency, concerns regarding Biden’s age and health have been prevalent, particularly intensified after his performance during a debate against Donald Trump in June 2024. Critics have often pointed out potential signs of cognitive decline. In February 2024, Biden underwent a physical examination at Walter Reed National Military Center, overseen by his physician Dr. Kevin O’Connor. At that time, O’Connor reported that Biden exhibited “no new concerns” regarding his health and deemed him “fit for duty.”
Despite Biden’s apparent health struggles, significant reports have surfaced detailing how his aides were already voicing apprehensions about his capability to fulfill another term. A book authored by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Axios’ Alex Thompson unveils insights into the discussions among Biden’s aides, hinting at serious considerations regarding whether he might require a wheelchair. Additionally, it is noted that during a fundraiser in June 2024, Biden failed to recognize esteemed actor George Clooney, which has sparked further discussions about his mental acuity.
Following his exit from the White House, Biden has kept a low profile but has started to gradually engage with the public again. Recently, he made an appearance on ABC’s “The View,” where he addressed allegations about cognitive decline during his final year in office, declaring them untrue. He firmly stated, “They are wrong,” rejecting the notion that his mental capacity had diminished.
Biden’s wife, Jill Biden, has also publicly defended her husband, emphasizing the rigorous effort he exerted throughout his presidency. She noted that every day he was dedicated to his work, continuing to engage with briefings and staff members even after long work hours, contrasting the negative narratives spewed by authors of critical books about him.
Throughout his political career, Biden has been a proponent for increased cancer research initiatives. Following the tragic loss of his son, Beau Biden, to brain cancer, he established the “Cancer Moonshot” program during his vice presidency, aiming to eradicate cancer as we know it. In 2022, he revitalized this initiative, expressing an ambitious vision of cutting American cancer deaths in half over the next 20 to 25 years while enhancing the support network for patients and their families.
In summary, this recent announcement of Joe Biden’s cancer diagnosis sheds light on ongoing concerns regarding his health, especially considering his vital role in American politics. While navigating treatment options and facing harsh scrutiny related to his age, Biden’s dedication to cancer research and management continues to resonate with many across the nation. As developments unfold, the public remains attentive to both his health journey and the intricate landscape of American leadership.