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By Daniel Orton
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Former President Joe Biden responded publicly early Monday after the announcement of his diagnosis with an "aggressive form" of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, a development first disclosed by his personal office on Sunday.
"Cancer touches us all. Like so many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places. Thank you for lifting us up with love and support," Biden wrote in a post on social media.
The message was accompanied by a selfie of the 82-year-old former president and his wife, former first lady Dr. Jill Biden, along with their cat.
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Biden, 82, was diagnosed on Friday after recent urinary symptoms prompted further medical evaluation, resulting in the discovery of a prostate nodule. His office stated that he and his family are reviewing treatment strategies with physicians.
Why It Matters
Speculation regarding Biden's health circulated widely last year before he dropped out of the presidential election race and was replaced by then-Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic candidate.
As a candidate, Biden dismissed concerns about his mental acuity. He later dropped out of the presidential race following a disastrous first TV debate against Donald Trump in June.
The Biden administration's transparency over his health during the campaign has been questioned, with a forthcoming book alleging aides covered up his health issues. There has been no indication Biden's prostate cancer issue was diagnosed while he was president.
In February 2024, Biden's doctor declared him "fit to serve" after he underwent a physical at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
What To Know
Biden's office announced Sunday that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5)—the highest risk category—following the detection of a small nodule during medical tests. The cancer had already metastasized to his bones, making it a Stage 4 diagnosis. According to his office's statement, "while this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management."
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men apart from non-melanoma skin cancer. In 2021, more than 236,000 new cases were recorded in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Cancers that spread beyond the prostate are considered incurable but can sometimes be managed for several years with therapies.
Biden, whose son Beau died of brain cancer in 2015, has been a strong proponent of cancer research. As vice president, he led the Obama-era Cancer Moonshot initiative, which he revived during his presidency with a goal of cutting cancer death rates by 50 percent over 25 years.
The announcement spurred widespread bipartisan messages of support. Lawmakers such as Utah Governor Spencer Cox and California Governor Gavin Newsom issued messages wishing Biden strength and recovery.
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What People Are Saying
President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social on Sunday: "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."
Former Vice President Kamala Harris said in a statement: "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."
What Happens Next
Public and media attention will likely continue as updates on his health emerge in the coming weeks.
Update, 5/19/2025, 08:45 a.m. ET: This article was updated with additional information
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