Washington D.C. – Former U.S. President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer, his office announced Sunday. The diagnosis, revealed after recent medical evaluations, indicates a Gleason score of 9, signifying the cancer has likely spread to the bone.
“While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management,” stated a spokesperson from Biden’s office. The former president is currently reviewing treatment options with his family and medical team.
Prostate cancer is graded using the Gleason scoring system, which ranges from 2 to 10, with higher scores indicating a more aggressive and advanced form of the disease. A Gleason score of 9 suggests that the cancer cells are poorly differentiated and have a high likelihood of spreading.
This diagnosis comes after Biden abruptly ended his bid for re-election in July 2024, amidst growing concerns about his age and health. Biden, who served as president from 2021 to 2025, was the oldest person to assume the presidency at the time, a record later surpassed by his successor, Donald Trump, 78.
Biden’s political career spans several decades. He was first elected as a U.S. Senator for Delaware in 1972, serving six terms. He later served as the 47th Vice President under President Barack Obama from 2009 to 2017 before winning the 2020 presidential election.
The Biden family has previously experienced the impact of cancer with the passing of his son, Beau Biden, from brain cancer in 2015.
Messages of support have poured in following the announcement. His successor, Donald Trump, expressed his condolences on Truth Social, 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.”
Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who succeeded Biden as the Democratic Party’s nominee after his withdrawal from the election race, also offered her support. “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,” she said.
President Barack Obama, under whom Biden served as Vice President, echoed these sentiments. “Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer in all its forms than Joe, and I am certain he will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace. We pray for a fast and full recovery,” Obama shared on social media.
The news of Biden’s diagnosis has prompted renewed discussions about the health of prominent political figures and the challenges of aging in public life. Further updates on his treatment plan are expected as they become available.
