Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, according to a statement released by his office on May 18, 2025. The diagnosis followed medical evaluations prompted by urinary symptoms, leading to the discovery of a prostate nodule. Subsequent tests confirmed a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), indicating a high-grade, rapidly progressing cancer.
Despite the advanced stage of the disease, Biden’s medical team noted that the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management through hormone therapy. This form of treatment aims to slow the growth and spread of cancer cells by reducing hormone levels or blocking their effects.
Biden, who is 82 years old, served as the 46th President of the United States from 2021 to 2025. During his presidency, concerns about his age and health were recurrent topics of discussion, particularly leading up to the 2024 election. Following a challenging debate performance in June 2024, Biden announced he would not seek re-election, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.
The news of Biden’s diagnosis has elicited a bipartisan outpouring of support. Former President Donald Trump expressed his well-wishes, stating, “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.”
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, particularly those over the age of 65. According to the American Cancer Society, about one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. While many cases are detected early and are highly treatable, advanced prostate cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, presents more significant treatment challenges.
In Biden’s case, the metastasis to the bones categorizes the cancer as stage IV, the most advanced stage. Treatment options at this stage focus on controlling the disease and maintaining quality of life. Hormone therapy is often the first line of treatment for metastatic prostate cancer, aiming to lower testosterone levels that fuel cancer growth. Other treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and newer targeted therapies, depending on the patient’s overall health and specific cancer characteristics.
Biden’s diagnosis has also reignited discussions about the health and age of political leaders. As the oldest person to have served as U.S. President, Biden’s health was a focal point during his tenure and the subsequent election cycle. His decision not to run for a second term was influenced by these concerns, as well as the desire to ensure effective leadership for the country.
The former president’s commitment to cancer research and treatment has been a notable aspect of his public service. Following the death of his son Beau Biden from brain cancer in 2015, Biden launched the “Cancer Moonshot” initiative to accelerate cancer research and improve access to treatments. His personal experience with cancer has informed his advocacy and policy efforts in this area.
As Biden and his family consider treatment options, the public response underscores the importance of empathy and support for individuals facing serious health challenges, regardless of political affiliation. The situation also highlights the need for continued investment in cancer research and the development of effective treatments for advanced-stage cancers.
For those seeking more information or support regarding prostate cancer, resources are available through organizations such as the American Cancer Society, which offers comprehensive information on diagnosis, treatment options, and support services.
