By Gloria Nosa
Former U.S. President Joe Biden, aged 82, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, according to a statement from his personal office released on May 18, 2025. The diagnosis was made following a routine medical evaluation after Biden experienced increasing urinary symptoms, leading to the discovery of a prostate nodule. Further tests revealed a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), indicating a high-grade cancer that has spread beyond the prostate.
Despite the advanced stage of the disease, the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which may allow for effective treatment options. Biden and his family are currently reviewing these options with his medical team.
This diagnosis comes after Biden’s 2024 physical examination, which had deemed him “fit to serve.” However, concerns about his health and age led to his decision not to seek re-election in 2024, with Vice President Kamala Harris succeeding him as the Democratic nominee. Wikipedia
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the U.S., with age being the most significant risk factor. The Gleason score is a grading system that assesses the aggressiveness of prostate cancer; higher scores indicate more aggressive and less differentiated cancer cells.
Biden’s diagnosis has drawn attention to the importance of regular health screenings, especially for older adults, and has reignited discussions about transparency regarding the health of public figures. As he navigates this challenging diagnosis, Biden’s experience underscores the significance of early detection and personalized treatment in managing prostate cancer.
