Former U.S. President Joe Biden, 81, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has already metastasized to his bones, according to an official statement from his personal office released on Sunday.
The statement revealed that Biden recently underwent a medical evaluation following increased urinary symptoms, leading to the discovery of a prostate nodule. Further examination confirmed the presence of advanced prostate cancer.
“On Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone,” the statement read.
A Gleason score of 9 indicates a high-grade, fast-growing cancer, and the presence of bone metastases typically suggests a more advanced stage of the disease. However, Biden’s medical team noted a potentially optimistic aspect of the diagnosis:
“While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management,” the statement added.
Hormone-sensitive prostate cancer often responds well to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and other targeted treatments, which can slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.
Biden and his family are said to be currently reviewing treatment options with his team of physicians.
The news of the former president’s health has sparked an outpouring of support across political lines, with current and former leaders sending messages of strength and solidarity.
This marks a significant development in Biden’s public health history. Throughout his political career, he has been transparent about medical evaluations, and this diagnosis is expected to draw global attention as treatment decisions unfold.
