Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, May 19: Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an advanced and aggressive form of prostate cancer, his office confirmed in a statement released on Sunday. The diagnosis has sparked an outpouring of sympathy and well-wishes from across the political spectrum.
According to the statement, Biden underwent a medical evaluation last week after reporting worsening urinary symptoms. The examination revealed a prostate nodule, and further testing confirmed cancer with a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) — an indication of a high-grade, fast-growing tumor. The disease has already metastasized to the bone.
Despite the severity of the diagnosis, Biden's team emphasized that the cancer is hormone-sensitive, offering a broader range of treatment options. “The president and his family are reviewing treatment plans with his medical team,” the statement said.
At 82 years old, Biden made history as the oldest U.S. president when he left office earlier this year following the 2024 presidential election, in which Donald Trump reclaimed the presidency, defeating then-Vice President Kamala Harris.
The announcement of Biden’s illness was met with bipartisan messages of support.
“Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis,” President Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.”
Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna echoed the sentiment, writing on X: “Praying for Joe Biden and his family to defeat the cancer he’s recently been diagnosed with. He and Jill have always been fighters, and I am confident they will meet this challenge with grit and grace.”
The news has reignited public discussion about Biden’s health during his time in office, particularly around concerns about his cognitive function and overall fitness.
Biden has long been personally and politically involved in the fight against cancer. In 2015, he lost his son Beau Biden to brain cancer — a tragedy that deeply shaped his advocacy. Since then, he has spearheaded the Cancer Moonshot initiative, aimed at accelerating efforts to find a cure, both as Vice President under Barack Obama and during his own presidency.
Now, as he confronts the disease himself, Biden finds himself in a deeply personal battle — one that has already united Americans in hope and compassion.