Biden Battles Aggressive Prostate Cancer: A Leader’s Resilience
Former US President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. The diagnosis, confirmed by Biden’s office, comes after the 82-year-old experienced increasing urinary symptoms, leading to the discovery of a prostate nodule. With a Gleason score of 9, Biden’s cancer is considered among the most aggressive. However, his office noted that the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, allowing for effective management.
A Familiar Foe: Biden’s History with Health Issues
This isn’t Biden’s first health scare. In 2023, he had a cancerous skin lesion removed from his chest, and prior to his presidency, he battled two life-threatening brain aneurysms. Despite these challenges, Biden has shown remarkable resilience. His determination to fight this latest diagnosis has been echoed by well-wishers, including President Donald Trump, former President Barack Obama, and former Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump took to social media to express his support, saying, “Melania and I are saddened to hear about @JoeBiden’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.”
Treatment and Prognosis
According to Dr. Matthew Smith of Massachusetts General Brigham Cancer Center, Biden’s treatment will likely involve hormone-deprivation therapy, given the cancer’s hormone-sensitive nature. While metastatic prostate cancer is challenging to treat, patients can expect to live with the disease for four to five years with proper management. Smith noted that “most men in this situation would be treated with drugs and would not be advised to have either surgery or radiation therapy.” With his trademark resolve and determination, Biden is expected to face this challenge head-on, and many are rooting for his speedy recovery.
