Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has already metastasized to his bones, his personal office confirmed on Friday, May 17, 2025.
The 82-year-old, who served as president from 2021 to 2025, is now weighing treatment options alongside his family and doctors.
What We Know About Biden’s Diagnosis
Biden had been experiencing increasing urinary symptoms, prompting further tests. Doctors discovered a prostate nodule, and subsequent evaluations confirmed an advanced cancer diagnosis. The disease is characterized by a Gleason score of 9, a high grade that indicates the cancer is aggressive and likely to grow quickly.
Despite the severity, there is a silver lining: the cancer appears hormone-sensitive, making it more manageable through hormone therapy and related treatments.
“While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management,” Biden’s office stated.
What Does This Mean?
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, particularly in older age. Biden’s diagnosis follows a pattern similar to King Charles III, who also announced a cancer diagnosis following an unrelated prostate procedure earlier this year.
Metastatic prostate cancer, when it spreads beyond the prostate to areas like the bones, is more complex to treat. However, if the tumors rely on hormones like testosterone to grow (as Biden’s do), treatments that suppress hormone levels can slow or stop disease progression.
Biden’s Health History
This isn’t Biden’s first encounter with cancer. In the past, he’s had several non-melanoma skin cancers removed and underwent colon polyp surgery in 2021. In 2023, a basal cell carcinoma was also removed from his chest.
While serving in office, he frequently faced scrutiny over his physical and cognitive health, especially during his final year. Biden ultimately withdrew from the 2024 re-election race, citing health concerns, and endorsed then-Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor for the Democratic nomination.
Global Reactions
Political rivals and allies alike have expressed support and sympathy:
- Donald Trump said, “Melania and I are saddened… we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.”
- Meghan McCain, daughter of the late Senator John McCain, wrote, “Cancer is hell. Wishing nothing but healing, prayers, and strength.”
- Governor Gavin Newsom added, “A man of dignity, strength, and compassion like him deserves a long and beautiful life.”
Key Facts About Prostate Cancer Symptoms
While early prostate cancer often shows no symptoms, warning signs may include:
- Frequent urination (especially at night)
- Difficulty starting or stopping urine
- Weak or interrupted flow
- Pain during urination or ejaculation
- Blood in urine or semen
Symptoms of advanced prostate cancer may include bone pain, weight loss, or fatigue.
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