Former U.S. President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, according to a public statement released by his personal office on Sunday, May 18, 2025. The announcement comes following increased concerns about Biden’s health, especially given his age and recent retreat from the public spotlight.
What Led to the Diagnosis?
Biden’s cancer diagnosis followed a recent medical evaluation prompted by increasing urinary symptoms, which are often early signs of prostate complications. Doctors discovered a new nodule on his prostate, which led to further tests, including a biopsy. Those tests confirmed prostate cancer characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) — one of the highest ratings indicating an aggressive form of the disease.
According to the statement from Biden’s office, the cancer has already spread beyond the prostate to the bones, a condition known as metastatic prostate cancer. Despite the severity, the cancer is reported to be hormone-sensitive, which typically responds better to treatment and provides more effective management options.
Understanding the Severity: What Does a Gleason Score of 9 Mean?
The Gleason score is a grading system used to determine the aggressiveness of prostate cancer. Scores range from 6 (least aggressive) to 10 (most aggressive). A score of 9 suggests a fast-growing, highly malignant form of cancer that has a higher chance of spreading to other parts of the body.
Dr. Benjamin Davies, a professor of urologic oncology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, emphasized that a Gleason 9 score represents the most aggressive stage of prostate cancer, increasing the urgency of treatment. Though he is not involved in Biden’s care, Davies explained that metastasis to the bones marks a very serious stage of cancer — one that is no longer curable but still potentially manageable with the right therapies.
What Are the Treatment Options?
President Biden and his family are reportedly in consultation with his medical team to evaluate the most suitable course of treatment. Hormone therapy, which targets testosterone (a hormone that fuels prostate cancer growth), is often the first line of defense in hormone-sensitive cases. Other potential treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or newer targeted therapies and immunotherapies.
Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, a urologist and assistant professor at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine, explained that even high-risk prostate cancer patients “can live a pretty normal life and have a good quality of life, as long as the cancer is treated and monitored closely.” He noted that some cancer treatments can have side effects affecting memory, mood, and overall well-being, especially in elderly patients, and those risks must be weighed when crafting a treatment plan.
Biden’s Current Health Status
As of the weekend, Biden is at home in Wilmington, Delaware, according to sources close to the family. CNN and other major outlets have inquired about which medical institution is overseeing his treatment, but official details remain undisclosed at this time.
This is not the first time Biden’s health has made headlines. During his presidency, questions about his age and cognitive health were frequent — especially during the 2024 re-election campaign. His uneven debate performance against Donald Trump last June drew widespread concern and ultimately influenced his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, just three weeks after the debate.
Health Questions During the 2024 Campaign
In February 2024, Biden underwent a comprehensive physical at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, led by his longtime physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor. The report at the time stated that there were “no new concerns” with his health and that Biden was “fit for duty.”
However, new reporting from a book co-authored by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Axios’ Alex Thompson revealed that several aides had privately expressed concerns about Biden’s physical and cognitive state long before his debate withdrawal. Among the revelations: aides allegedly discussed whether they might need to use a wheelchair for Biden’s second term, and that he failed to recognize actor George Clooney during a fundraiser in June 2024.
Despite these claims, Biden and his wife, Jill Biden, have publicly pushed back against the narratives questioning his cognition. Appearing earlier this month on ABC’s The View, Biden firmly stated: “They are wrong. There is nothing to sustain that.” Jill added that critics were not present in the White House and did not witness Biden’s daily work ethic and discipline.
Bipartisan Reactions and Public Support
The announcement of Biden’s cancer diagnosis sparked a wave of responses from current and former political figures across party lines.
Donald Trump’s Message
Former President Donald Trump, who has long criticized Biden’s mental and physical fitness, issued an unexpectedly gracious message on Truth Social:
“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.”
Kamala Harris’ Statement
Vice President Kamala Harris, who took over the Democratic campaign after Biden’s 2024 withdrawal, released a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter):
“Doug and I are saddened to learn of President Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis. 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.”
A Personal and National Fight Against Cancer
Cancer is deeply personal for Joe Biden. His eldest son, Beau Biden, died of brain cancer in 2015 at the age of 46. That tragedy galvanized Biden’s lifelong mission to tackle cancer in all its forms.
In 2016, then-President Barack Obama appointed Biden to lead the White House Cancer Moonshot Task Force, which aimed to accelerate research and improve coordination across cancer-fighting institutions. Biden vowed to make cancer research a national priority, stating that while he was “not naïve about the challenges,” he had never been more optimistic about “doing big things.”
As President in 2022, Biden reignited the Moonshot Initiative, pledging to cut the cancer death rate by at least 50% over 25 years. In August 2023, he announced $150 million in new funding for cancer research and support services, aiming to build a national movement around the cause.
Obama and Clinton Voice Support
Former President Barack Obama expressed solidarity with his former vice president on X:
“Michelle and I are thinking of the entire Biden family. 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.”
Hillary Clinton also acknowledged Biden’s commitment:
“I’m thinking of the Bidens as they take on cancer, a disease they’ve done so much to try to spare other families from. Wishing you a speedy, full recovery.”
What’s Next for Biden?
According to doctors, it could take a few weeks to finalize a personalized treatment plan. Advances in prostate cancer therapies over the last decade — including new hormone blockers, immunotherapies, and improved radiation technologies — have significantly improved survival rates for patients even in advanced stages.
While a diagnosis of bone-metastasized cancer is very serious and not considered curable, many patients live for years with the disease under effective management and regular monitoring.
Joe Biden now faces a profound personal health battle — one that resonates not just because of his status as a former president but also due to his leadership in America’s fight against cancer. With strong bipartisan support, access to world-class medical care, and a long track record of resilience, Biden’s path forward will be closely watched by the nation.
For more on prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment options, and patient support, visit the National Cancer Institute’s resource on prostate cancer.
