The 82-year-old former U.S. president is now undergoing radiation and hormone therapy after being diagnosed earlier this year with stage 4 prostate cancer that has spread to his bones.
A statement released by his office on Saturday confirmed the latest development:
“As part of a treatment plan for prostate cancer, President Biden is currently undergoing radiation therapy and hormone treatment,”
— Biden spokesperson.
Biden had already been taking hormone medication since his initial diagnosis in May, but doctors have now added a five-week course of radiation therapy, according to NBC News.
A Serious But Manageable Condition
When Biden’s office first disclosed his condition in May, doctors described the cancer as aggressive but hormone-sensitive, meaning it could be managed effectively with treatment.
Biden’s medical team discovered the cancer after he sought medical attention for urinary symptoms. Tests revealed a prostate nodule, and a biopsy confirmed metastatic stage 4 prostate cancer with a Gleason score of nine, indicating an advanced and fast-growing form of the disease.
“While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management,”
his office said at the time.
A History of Health Battles
This latest chapter in Biden’s health struggles follows surgery last month to remove skin cancer lesions from his forehead.
The former president has spoken candidly about his health and the emotional toll of cancer, referencing his family’s painful history with the disease.
His son Beau Biden died of a brain tumor in 2015, and Dr. Jill Biden, the former First Lady, has also undergone procedures to remove cancerous lesions in the past.
Following his diagnosis earlier this year, Biden released a heartfelt statement on social media:
“Cancer touches us all. Like so many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places.”
Continuing His Public Role
Despite his health challenges, Biden has continued to remain active in public life. Before his diagnosis, he had been exploring the possibility of another presidential run, though those plans are now uncertain given the intensity of his treatment.
Medical experts told NBC News that prostate cancer of this type may have been developing undiagnosed for years, underscoring the importance of early detection.
A Global Outpouring of Support
Since the announcement, messages of support have poured in from world leaders, celebrities, and cancer survivors alike, praising Biden for his openness and resilience.
For now, Biden’s team says he remains in good spirits and continues to work closely with his doctors as treatment progresses.
“He is focused on recovery, family, and faith,” the spokesperson added.
