Biden Diagnosed With Aggressive Prostate Cancer That Spread to Bones

Former President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, according to a statement released just four months after he left the White House.

On April 18, media outlets including The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal cited Biden’s personal spokesperson, who confirmed the diagnosis and said the cancer was discovered following a worsening of urinary symptoms. “Last week, President Biden received medical attention after experiencing worsening urinary symptoms, which led to the discovery of a new prostate nodule,” the spokesperson said.

Gleason Score 9, Bone Metastasis Confirmed

Biden was officially diagnosed on May 16 with prostate cancer classified as Gleason score 9 (Grade Group 5)—indicating one of the most severe forms of the disease. The cancer had already spread to his bones at the time of diagnosis.

“This indicates a more aggressive form,” the statement continued. “However, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective treatment. President Biden and his family are currently reviewing treatment options with his physician.”

According to medical standards, Gleason scores measure the aggressiveness of prostate cancer. A score between 2 and 6 typically indicates low-risk cancer, while scores from 7 to 10, combined with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels of 20 or higher, are considered high-risk.

Last week, Biden’s team had stated that a “small nodule” had been found in his prostate and further evaluation was underway.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among men in the United States, with 13 out of every 100 men expected to be diagnosed during their lifetime.

Cognitive Concerns and Political Fallout

Biden stepped down from the presidency in January, becoming the oldest U.S. president to leave office at 82. Throughout his term, concerns over his physical and cognitive health were frequent topics of public discussion.

Following a June 2024 presidential debate, scrutiny over Biden’s mental fitness intensified. Ultimately, he withdrew from his bid for a second term and transferred the Democratic nomination to then-Vice President Kamala Harris.

New allegations are expected to surface with the release of Original Sin, a book by CNN anchor Jake Tapper and Axios journalist Alex Thompson, set for publication on May 20. The book alleges that during a June 2024 fundraising event, Biden failed to recognize actor George Clooney, a long-time supporter and friend of over 15 years. The authors claim that close aides deliberately concealed signs of cognitive decline for an extended period.