Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an “aggressive” form of cancer, as detailed in a recent statement from his office. Following this announcement, several former presidents have extended their well-wishes.
The office of the 82-year-old former president confirmed on Sunday (May 18) that Biden has been diagnosed with prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones.
Biden’s representatives revealed that after consulting with doctors about urinary symptoms, a “prostate nodule” was discovered.
In the statement, it was noted: “On Friday he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone.
“Although this indicates a more aggressive disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management.
“The president and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians.”
Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer among men in the United States, aside from skin cancer, affecting approximately one in eight men, as per the American Cancer Society.
According to the Mayo Clinic, prostate cancer originates from cell growth in the prostate, a small gland located below the bladder that produces semen.
Typically, it is detected in its early stages and progresses slowly, with the clinic noting that most diagnosed individuals are eventually “cured.”
Many men can live for years without treatment, as symptoms often don’t manifest until the disease has advanced.
The NHS lists symptoms including increased frequency of urination, difficulty urinating, straining or prolonged urination, weak flow, and blood in urine or semen.
Indicators of further spread include bone and back pain, loss of appetite, testicle pain, and weight loss.
The Gleason score, as explained by Cancer Research, is used to grade prostate cancer.
This grading evaluates how much the cancer cells resemble normal cells and their potential to grow aggressively.
The grading system consists of five groups, with Grade Group 1 being the least aggressive and Grade Group 5 the most.
Biden’s Gleason score of nine places him in the highest category, suggesting the cells are very abnormal and likely to grow rapidly.
Biden’s presentation to doctors with common symptoms of prostate cancer, such as urinary issues, indicates the cancer has already spread to his bones.
While it’s not unusual for men in their 80s to be diagnosed with prostate cancer, Dr. Ryan Clearly, a urologist at MedStar Health, told the BBC that Biden’s Gleason grade suggests it’s more advanced than most cases.
Dr. Clearly noted that generally about a third of patients with metastatic prostate cancer survive five years post-diagnosis.
Biden’s cancer is identified as hormone-sensitive, which allows for management through medications that reduce or block hormones in the body to halt further growth.
Dr. Jamin Vinod Brahmbhatt, a urologist at Orlando Health Medical Group, stated to the media that while these treatments are not curative, they provide medical options to stabilize and control the cancer, though it never fully disappears.
Biden and his family are exploring potential treatment paths.
Former President Barack Obama responded to the news with a statement on Twitter.
He stated: “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.
“We pray for a fast and full recovery.”
Obama’s message reflects Biden’s dedication to fighting cancer during his presidency, especially following the death of his son Beau from a brain tumor in 2015.
President Trump, Biden’s predecessor and successor, also expressed support, writing 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.”