President Joe Biden, 82, has confirmed a diagnosis of aggressive prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. The news was announced in an official statement released by the White House medical team on Sunday, May 18, 2025.
This development has drawn widespread attention and concern from across the political spectrum, prompting a surge of public support and well-wishes for the President and his family.
The Medical Diagnosis: What We Know
According to the White House, President Biden underwent medical evaluation following the emergence of urinary symptoms, which led to the discovery of a nodule on his prostate. A biopsy later confirmed the presence of cancer, graded as a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5)—a classification that indicates a high-grade, aggressive tumor, according to information from the American Cancer Society and Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Despite the seriousness of the condition, doctors noted that the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which increases the range of effective treatment options. Hormone therapy is often used as a first-line treatment in such cases, aimed at slowing the growth of cancer cells that depend on androgens, such as testosterone, to thrive.
The President is currently consulting with a multidisciplinary medical team to assess the best course of treatment. Further updates are expected in accordance with medical evaluations and privacy protocols.
President Biden’s Message of Strength and Gratitude
On May 19, President Biden addressed the public for the first time since the diagnosis, sharing a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter). His statement read:
“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.”
The quote resonated with many Americans and underscored Biden’s long-standing personal connection to cancer awareness, advocacy, and public health reform.
Widespread Political Support and Unity
Reactions to the President’s diagnosis have crossed partisan lines, with messages of support coming from both Democratic and Republican leaders.
Donald Trump
Former President Donald Trump, Biden’s political rival in the last presidential election, shared a message via Truth Social, writing:
“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.”
Kamala Harris
Vice President Kamala Harris also responded with a personal message of support. In a statement posted on X, she expressed:
“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. We are hopeful for a full and speedy recovery.”
Other Political Leaders
Representative Ro Khanna of California added:
“Praying for @JoeBiden and his family to defeat the cancer he’s recently been diagnosed with. He and Jill have always been fighters and I am confident they will meet this challenge with grit and grace.”
Former political commentators and lawmakers, including Meghan McCain and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, also shared their sympathies and spoke about how cancer has affected their own families.
Such public displays of bipartisan empathy reflect a rare moment of unity in U.S. politics, especially as the country navigates complex issues at home and abroad.
Biden’s History with Cancer Advocacy
President Biden has long been a vocal advocate in the fight against cancer. Following the loss of his son Beau Biden to glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, in 2015, Biden launched the Cancer Moonshot initiative.
As detailed on the White House Cancer Moonshot page, the initiative aims to:
- Accelerate research to prevent, detect, and treat cancer
- Enhance access to life-saving treatments
- Improve the quality of life for cancer survivors and their families
Throughout his presidency, Biden has worked to prioritize medical research funding, expand access to preventive screenings, and improve equitable healthcare delivery.
Understanding Prostate Cancer
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in the United States, especially those aged 65 and older. The disease can range from slow-growing to aggressive forms that spread rapidly if not treated early.
Key facts about prostate cancer:
- It affects roughly 1 in 8 men during their lifetime.
- African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer face higher risks.
- Early detection through Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood tests and digital rectal exams can improve outcomes.
When diagnosed in the early stages, the 5-year relative survival rate for localized prostate cancer is nearly 100%. However, once the cancer has metastasized, the survival rate decreases significantly, which is why timely and accurate diagnosis is critical.
Moving Forward: Treatment and Prognosis
While the prognosis for metastatic prostate cancer varies, advances in treatment—including hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and precision medicine—have improved survival and quality of life in many cases.
The President’s medical team is expected to use evidence-based treatment protocols, and any further updates will be released through official White House channels to ensure transparency and accuracy.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that men over 50, or those at high risk, consult with their healthcare providers about screening options.
A Nation Watches and Waits
As the United States awaits further information about the President’s health, many Americans are using this moment to reflect on the broader impacts of cancer and the importance of community support.
The Biden family’s openness about this diagnosis is being seen as an opportunity to raise awareness and reduce stigma around cancer, especially among older adults.
Advocacy organizations such as the American Cancer Society and the Cancer Support Community continue to emphasize the importance of emotional support, early detection, and access to quality care.
Resources for Cancer Information
For readers seeking verified, science-backed information about prostate cancer, treatment options, and patient support services, please refer to the following reputable sources:
- White House Official Medical Statements
- American Cancer Society – Prostate Cancer
- National Cancer Institute
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Prostate Cancer
Conclusion
President Joe Biden’s public statement has reminded Americans of the human side of leadership, emphasizing that illness can affect anyone—regardless of status or political affiliation.
As he navigates treatment, Biden continues to receive strong support from leaders and citizens alike. His long-standing commitment to cancer advocacy offers hope to countless families facing similar battles, reinforcing the message that no one fights cancer alone.
