Former President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer, according to a statement released by his office on Sunday. The diagnosis followed a routine physical examination prompted by increasing urinary symptoms, which led to the discovery of a prostate nodule. Subsequent tests confirmed the presence of prostate cancer characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone.
The Gleason score is a grading system used to evaluate the aggressiveness of prostate cancer. Scores range from 6 to 10, with higher scores indicating more aggressive cancer. A score of 9 places the cancer in the high-grade category, suggesting a likelihood of rapid growth and spread.
Despite the severity of the diagnosis, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management. Hormone-sensitive cancers can respond well to treatments that lower testosterone levels, such as hormone therapy, radiation, or chemotherapy.
Biden and his family are currently reviewing treatment options with his physicians. This diagnosis adds to a history of health issues for the former president, including a brain aneurysm in 1988, pulmonary embolisms in 1989, gallbladder surgery and atrial fibrillation in 2003, and a skin cancer diagnosis in 2023.
The news of Biden’s diagnosis has prompted messages of support from across the political spectrum. President Donald Trump expressed his well wishes, stating, “We wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.”
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among American men. In 2025, it is estimated that there will be approximately 313,780 new cases and 35,770 deaths from prostate cancer in the United States.
While Biden’s diagnosis is serious, advancements in medical treatments offer hope for effective management of the disease. The former president’s medical team will continue to monitor his condition and determine the best course of action moving forward.
