Former President Joe Biden is currently undergoing radiation and hormone therapy for an aggressive form of prostate cancer. This diagnosis was confirmed by his spokesperson, Kelly Scully, who stated that the treatment marks a new phase in addressing the illness that was identified after his presidency.
Biden, now 82 years old, first reported urinary symptoms earlier this year, leading to further examination that revealed the cancer had spread to his bones. His Gleason score is 9, categorizing it as one of the more aggressive forms of the disease. Scully explained, “As part of a treatment plan for prostate cancer, President Biden is currently undergoing radiation therapy and hormone treatment,” according to a statement provided to The Associated Press.
Background on Biden’s Health
This ongoing treatment follows a previous diagnosis of skin cancer, for which Biden underwent surgery to remove lesions from his forehead last month. The prostate cancer diagnosis was made public in May 2023, shortly after Biden left office in January. His departure came after he chose not to seek re-election following a challenging debate performance against Republican candidate Donald Trump, raising concerns regarding his age and overall health.
The Gleason scoring system is a standard method for grading prostate cancer aggressiveness. Scores range from 6 to 10, with higher numbers indicating a more aggressive cancer type. A score of 9 suggests that Biden’s cancer may behave more aggressively than lower-scoring variants.
Public and Political Reactions
The announcement of Biden’s cancer treatment has garnered significant public interest, particularly given his status as the oldest president in U.S. history. Discussions surrounding the health of national leaders are especially prominent as Biden continues to navigate the complexities of leadership at an advanced age.
Biden’s ongoing health challenges come against a backdrop of rising concerns about the impact of age and health on political leadership. His treatment plan reflects a commitment to addressing his health issues while maintaining his public role.
As the former president embarks on this new chapter of treatment, his office has expressed optimism regarding his care. The administration’s transparency regarding Biden’s health is intended to reassure the public about his well-being and capability to engage in political discourse.
In summary, Biden’s current treatment regimen emphasizes the ongoing battle against his cancer and highlights the broader implications of health in leadership roles. The public’s focus on Biden’s health is likely to continue as he undergoes therapy and navigates the challenges that lie ahead.
