Former U.S. President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. The diagnosis was confirmed following a series of medical evaluations triggered by persistent urinary symptoms. Doctors discovered a prostate nodule, which was later found to be cancerous.
Medical tests revealed that Biden is dealing with a high-grade form of cancer, receiving a Gleason score of 9 out of 10 — an indication of a fast-growing and potentially serious condition. Despite the advanced nature of the disease, his doctors noted that the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which means that there are effective treatment options available.
Biden and his family are currently reviewing treatment plans with his medical team to determine the best course of action going forward.
The announcement has led to an outpouring of support and concern from leaders and citizens around the world. Vice President Kamala Harris offered encouraging words, describing Biden as “a fighter” who has the strength and determination to face this health challenge head-on. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed concern and extended heartfelt wishes for Biden’s recovery, highlighting the international support surrounding him.
This recent diagnosis adds to Biden’s existing medical history. During his presidency in February 2023, he had a lesion removed from his chest, which was identified as basal cell carcinoma — a common and typically non-aggressive form of skin cancer. At the time, all cancerous tissue was successfully removed, and no further treatment was needed.
As Biden and his loved ones navigate this difficult time, support continues to pour in from all corners of the globe. Public figures, political allies, and citizens alike have expressed their hope for his strength, healing, and a full recovery.
At 82 years old, former U.S. President Joe Biden is currently undergoing medical evaluations after doctors found a small nodule on his prostate during a routine check-up, a spokesperson shared with ABC News on Tuesday.
Biden’s health has often been in the public eye, especially during and after his time in office. For example, in February 2023, while still serving as president, he had a lesion removed from his chest. The White House doctor, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, later confirmed it was basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Thankfully, all the cancerous tissue was successfully removed, and no further treatment was needed at that time.
Dr. O’Connor explained that while basal cell carcinoma usually doesn’t spread like some other skin cancers, it can grow larger if it’s not treated, which might make removal more complicated later on.
Before becoming president, Biden had also undergone Mohs surgery to remove non-melanoma skin cancers, and in 2023, his doctor noted that the biopsy site had healed well. Biden has continued regular skin check-ups since then.
Even though Dr. O’Connor declared Biden “fit for duty” as recently as February 2024, questions about his age and mental sharpness have been a part of public discussion. These concerns are thought to have played a role in his decision not to run for re-election in 2024.
Since leaving office in January, Biden has mostly stayed out of the spotlight, though he has made a few media appearances, including interviews reflecting on former President Trump’s first 100 days back in office.
