Former U.S. President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, according to an official statement released by his medical team on May 18, 2025. The diagnosis, which followed routine evaluation for urinary symptoms, has drawn widespread public attention, including commentary from prominent physicians and political leaders.
This article offers a fact-based overview of Biden’s diagnosis, expert commentary from medical professionals, and guidance on what this form of cancer means for patient outlook—based entirely on substantiated data from verified sources.
What Was Announced?
In a press statement released by Biden’s office, doctors revealed that he had been experiencing urinary symptoms, prompting further examination. A prostate nodule was discovered and subsequently analyzed. The diagnosis confirmed prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), which indicates a high-grade tumor. Imaging further showed that the cancer had metastasized to the bone, a more advanced stage of the disease.
Official Statement
“On Friday, [President Biden] was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone. While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management.”
The classification “hormone-sensitive” means that the cancer still responds to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), a common and effective first-line treatment.
What Is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among men in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS):
- About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime.
- Gleason scores are used to grade the aggressiveness of the cancer, with score 9 representing one of the most aggressive and fast-growing forms.
- When prostate cancer spreads to other parts of the body—such as the bones—it is considered stage IV.
However, modern treatments, especially for hormone-sensitive cases, allow for long-term disease control and improved quality of life.
Medical Commentary and Expert Analysis
Following the announcement, several medical professionals shared insights regarding the nature of Biden’s diagnosis and general patient outcomes for advanced prostate cancer.
Dr. William Dahut – Chief Scientific Officer, American Cancer Society
In an interview reported by multiple outlets, Dr. Dahut emphasized that metastatic prostate cancer is typically not curable, but it is treatable:
“In general, if cancer has spread to the bones, we don’t consider it curable,” Dr. Dahut said. “But many patients respond well to initial treatment and can live for many years with the diagnosis.”
Dahut noted that hormone therapies are the standard approach for such diagnoses and often include medications that reduce the level of testosterone—the hormone that fuels prostate cancer growth.
Dr. Howie Forman – Yale University
Dr. Howie Forman, a professor of radiology, public health, and biomedical imaging at the Yale School of Medicine, weighed in on the importance of regular Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) testing, a standard tool in prostate cancer screening.
On social media, Dr. Forman expressed surprise that the cancer had not been detected earlier, stating that Gleason 9 cancers typically present with elevated PSA levels that should prompt further examination.
“It is inconceivable that this was not being followed before he left the Presidency. A Gleason score of 9 would usually show elevated PSA levels for some time,” Forman wrote.
He later added that, while unusual, late-stage diagnosis can still be addressed with appropriate therapies, especially given Biden’s access to high-quality medical care.
Dr. Marc Siegel – Fox News Medical Contributor
Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor at NYU Langone Health, shared general medical guidance on prostate cancer detection, noting:
“Typically, elevated PSA levels are the first indicator, followed by a physical exam and then a biopsy if needed. Most of my male patients over the age of 45 are screened regularly.”
He emphasized the importance of early detection, especially for those with a family history of cancer, African American men, or individuals over age 65.
Public and Political Response
Public figures from both sides of the political spectrum shared support and well-wishes following the diagnosis.
Donald Trump Responds
Former President Donald Trump, now serving his second term, took to his social media platform Truth Social to issue a message of support.
“We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family. We wish Joe a fast and successful recovery,” Trump posted.
Despite past political disagreements, the message reflected a unified moment of empathy and respect, a sentiment echoed by many other leaders.
What Is the Outlook for Stage IV Prostate Cancer?
Although stage IV prostate cancer is considered advanced and typically not curable, many patients live extended and meaningful lives following diagnosis.
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI):
- The 5-year relative survival rate for prostate cancer with distant metastasis is about 32%. However, survival outcomes vary widely depending on treatment response, age, and overall health.
- Newer therapies, such as androgen receptor inhibitors, chemotherapy, and radiopharmaceuticals, are improving survival times.
- Quality of life management, including pain relief, fatigue management, and emotional support, is a key part of treatment for advanced cancer.
Treatment Options for Biden
While no detailed treatment plan has been made public, doctors suggest that for patients with hormone-sensitive metastatic prostate cancer, the following options are commonly considered:
- Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT)
Medications to block testosterone production, which slows tumor growth. - Targeted radiation or chemotherapy
Especially for bone metastases, to relieve pain and control growth. - Bone health medications
Drugs like bisphosphonates or denosumab to strengthen bones and reduce fracture risk. - Advanced therapies
Clinical trials and novel treatments, including immunotherapy and radioligand therapy, may be considered in specialized settings.
The Importance of Screening and Awareness
Biden’s diagnosis has reignited public discussion about early cancer detection. The American Urological Association (AUA) recommends discussing PSA testing with a healthcare provider starting at age 50 for most men—and as early as 40 for those at higher risk.
Prostate cancer, when detected early, has a nearly 100% 5-year survival rate for localized disease. The challenge remains identifying high-risk cases before they progress.
Final Thoughts
While President Joe Biden’s diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer is serious, medical experts underscore that effective management is possible, and many patients go on to lead fulfilling lives post-diagnosis. Biden’s medical team has affirmed that the cancer is hormone-sensitive, a key factor that enables multiple treatment options and improves response.
As more information becomes available, the public can expect updates from reputable medical sources and official communications.
In the meantime, we join the global community in wishing Joe Biden strength and recovery during this time.
