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Washington, D.C. — Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, according to a statement released by his office on Sunday. The diagnosis, described as “prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone,” places Biden in the highest risk category for the disease.
Despite the seriousness of the diagnosis, Biden’s office noted that the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management. The statement added, “The President and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians.”
The diagnosis followed further evaluation after a small nodule was detected in Biden’s prostate last week. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men, after skin cancer, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 13 out of every 100 men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetimes, with age being the most significant risk factor.
At 82, Biden is among the oldest living former presidents. He left office in January, holding the record as the oldest president in U.S. history. His successor, President Trump, who is 78, became the oldest person to take the oath of office earlier this year.
The news prompted an outpouring of support from across the political spectrum. President Trump posted on social media, “We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.” Former Vice President Kamala Harris also expressed support, stating, “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.”
Understanding the Diagnosis
A Gleason score is a grading system used to evaluate the aggressiveness of prostate cancer. Biden’s score of 9 (Grade Group 5) indicates that the cancer cells look very different from healthy cells and are considered poorly differentiated or undifferentiated. This is the second-highest possible score, suggesting a high risk of the cancer spreading further.
CBS News medical contributor Dr. Celine Gounder explained that the presence of bone metastases confirms that Biden’s cancer is at stage M1, placing him in the high or very high-risk management group according to leading clinical guidelines.
A Personal and National Fight Against Cancer
Biden’s family has a history with cancer. His son, Beau Biden, died of brain cancer in 2015, and the former president himself was treated for skin cancer two years ago. After Beau’s death, Biden spearheaded the “cancer moonshot” initiative, first launched in 2016 with the goal of accelerating cancer research and improving treatment. The initiative was relaunched in 2022 with renewed federal funding and a mission to “end cancer as we know it today.”
As Biden and his family consider treatment options, messages of hope and support continue to pour in from leaders and citizens alike, reflecting the former president’s enduring impact on the nation.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available information as reported by CBS News and other sources as of May 2025. Medical details are provided for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. For the latest updates or personalized medical guidance, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
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