… Joe Biden: What we know about prostate cancer diagnosis
Washington, D.C. – Former United States President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive and advanced form of prostate cancer, a revelation that has sent shockwaves across the nation and drawn fresh attention to men’s health, especially among aging populations.
The 82-year-old former president, who served from 2021 to 2025, received the diagnosis on Friday following a series of medical consultations prompted by urinary symptoms. According to his medical team, the cancer has already metastasized to his bones, complicating treatment and reducing curative prospects.
Understanding Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is a disease that affects the prostate gland, a small gland in the male reproductive system situated between the bladder and penis. The gland is responsible for producing seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm.
According to the UK’s NHS and the American Cancer Society (ACS), prostate cancer typically grows slowly. Many men live with it for years without requiring urgent treatment. However, in Biden’s case, doctors have identified a highly aggressive and fast-spreading variant.
Common Symptoms
The cancer was detected after Biden reported urinary issues—one of the most common early warning signs. These can include:
- Frequent urination, particularly at night
- Difficulty starting or stopping urine flow
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Blood in the urine or semen
Because prostate cancer tends to grow silently, these symptoms usually only appear once the prostate has enlarged enough to affect the urethra.
The Gleason Score: What Biden’s Score of 9 Means
Biden’s doctors reported a Gleason score of 9, a critical detail in understanding the severity of his condition.
The Gleason grading system, used widely in the United States, measures how likely prostate cancer is to spread. It examines how abnormal the cancer cells appear under a microscope and ranges from 6 (least aggressive) to 10 (most aggressive).
- A score of 6 indicates low-grade cancer
- 7 is intermediate
- Scores of 8 to 10 signify high-grade, aggressive cancer
With a score of 9, Biden’s cancer is classified as high-grade, meaning it is likely to grow rapidly and spread to other parts of the body.
How Advanced Is Biden’s Cancer?
The cancer has already metastasized to the bones—a stage known as Stage IV. According to Dr. Ryan Cleary, a urologist with MedStar Health, this level of progression is “more advanced than most men would encounter at diagnosis.”
While many men in their 80s are diagnosed with prostate cancer, metastasis to the bone drastically reduces treatment options and prognosis.
Treatment Options and Limitations
Dr. Jamin Vinod Brahmbhatt, a urologist with Orlando Health Medical Group, explained that because the cancer has already spread, curative treatment is no longer an option. Instead, doctors will aim to control and manage the disease.
Biden’s Treatment Arsenal
- Hormone Therapy:
Biden’s cancer is reported to be hormone-sensitive, meaning that male hormones (especially testosterone) fuel the cancer’s growth. Hormone therapy can block or lower these hormones to slow or stop the cancer. - Chemotherapy:
This may be used to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells throughout the body. While it won’t cure metastatic prostate cancer, it can shrink tumors and relieve symptoms. - Steroid Therapy:
Can help control pain and inflammation associated with bone metastases. - Bone-targeted Therapy:
Drugs like bisphosphonates or denosumab may be used to strengthen bones and prevent fractures or other complications. - Clinical Trials:
Biden’s medical team has also indicated the possibility of enrolling him in clinical trials for advanced prostate cancer, depending on eligibility.
Dr. Jeffrey Kuhlman, former White House physician during the Obama administration, said trials may offer access to promising therapies not yet widely available.
Prognosis and Quality of Life
While the full details of Biden’s condition remain confidential, experts suggest the average five-year survival rate for metastatic prostate cancer is approximately 30%. However, many variables—including general health, treatment response, and genetics—can impact outcomes.
Dr. Kuhlman emphasized the importance of quality of life in treatment decisions:
“At this point, the priority is to maintain functionality and reduce pain, not necessarily to eliminate the cancer.”
Political and Public Health Implications
Biden’s diagnosis has sparked intense media coverage, not just because of his political legacy but also due to broader public health concerns.
Health of U.S. Presidents in the Spotlight
Presidential health has always been a matter of public interest. Former presidents undergo rigorous medical check-ups, and prostate cancer screenings are standard for male presidents over 50.
This diagnosis follows a string of high-profile health issues in American political leadership, and experts say it could spur broader discussions on:
- Men’s health awareness
- The importance of early detection
- Support for cancer research and funding
Public Reaction and Tributes
Messages of support have poured in from leaders across the political spectrum. President Kamala Harris, Biden’s former vice president and successor, issued a statement saying:
“Joe is a fighter. We are confident in the capable hands of his medical team and pray for his strength in the days ahead.”
Former President Barack Obama tweeted:
“Thinking of my friend Joe Biden during this tough moment. His courage and dignity continue to inspire.”
The American Cancer Society also released a statement urging men over 50 to get regular screenings and emphasized that early detection saves lives.
Prostate Cancer in the U.S.: Key Facts
According to the American Cancer Society, here are some 2025 projections:
- 300,000+ new cases expected this year
- 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed in their lifetime
- It is the second leading cause of cancer death among American men, behind lung cancer
Risk factors include:
- Age (risk increases dramatically after 50)
- Family history of prostate or breast cancer
- Ethnicity (African-American men are at higher risk)
- Diets high in red meat and dairy
Final Word: A Wake-Up Call for Men’s Health
Dr. Brahmbhatt summed it up best:
“If there’s any inspiration in this story, it’s this—get checked, even if you feel fine.”
As Biden and his family explore treatment options, the episode is already having a ripple effect on the conversation about prostate cancer and the importance of early diagnosis.
Whether in the Oval Office or out of public life, health remains the most unpredictable factor in leadership and legacy.
