Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones, according to a statement issued by his office on Sunday. Biden, 82, underwent medical evaluation last week after experiencing urinary symptoms and the detection of a prostate nodule, which led to further testing confirming the diagnosis on Friday.
The cancer was assigned a Gleason score of 9, placing it in the highest risk category, Grade Group 5. This score indicates that the cancer cells are markedly different from normal prostate cells, suggesting rapid growth and a high likelihood of metastasis. Despite the seriousness of the diagnosis, Biden’s office highlighted that the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective treatment through hormone deprivation therapies.
Prostate cancer is among the most common cancers affecting men in the U.S. and remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. When the disease spreads beyond the prostate, it often invades the bones, complicating treatment efforts. Metastatic prostate cancer is more difficult to treat than cancer confined to the prostate because it is challenging to target all tumour sites.
However, hormone-sensitive cancers like Biden’s can respond well to therapies that reduce male hormone levels, helping to slow disease progression and manage symptoms. Biden and his family are currently consulting with medical professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. He is reportedly spending time at his home in Wilmington, Delaware, as discussions about therapy options continue.
This announcement comes amid ongoing public concern about Biden’s age and health, which intensified following a difficult debate performance during his 2024 re-election campaign. Biden subsequently withdrew from the race last summer, with Vice President Kamala Harris stepping in as the Democratic nominee.
“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,” Harris expressed her support on social media.
President Donald Trump, Biden’s political rival, also extended his well wishes, describing himself as “saddened by the news” and wishing Biden “a fast and successful recovery.”
Biden’s medical history includes previous cancer-related issues—in February 2023, while still in office, he had a basal cell carcinoma lesion removed from his chest, and in 2021, a benign but potentially pre-cancerous colon polyp was excised. His commitment to cancer research has been a critical aspect of his public service, notably through the Cancer Moonshot initiative, which he revitalised as president with the goal of halving cancer deaths within 25 years. This mission holds personal significance, as Biden’s late son Beau died from brain cancer in 2015.
The American Cancer Society responded to Biden’s diagnosis by emphasising the importance of early detection and expressing concern over rising rates of advanced prostate cancer diagnoses. They highlighted the need for continued efforts to prevent late-stage disease and reduce mortality.