CliffNotes
- Joe Biden diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer
- The former US president, 82, is reviewing his treatment options
- Gleason score of 9, indicating a high-grade cancer
- Despite the high level, treatment is available
Joe Biden Diagnosed with Aggressive Prostate Cancer
What Happened
Former U.S. President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones. His medical team reported a Gleason score of 9, indicating a high-grade cancer. Despite the severity, the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which may allow for effective treatment options.
Biden’s office announced that he and his family are currently reviewing potential treatment plans with his physicians. The diagnosis followed recent medical evaluations prompted by urinary symptoms and the discovery of a prostate nodule.
Well wishes have poured in from across the political spectrum – including one of Biden’s most vocal critics, current US president Donald Trump.
What Next
Biden is expected to begin hormone therapy, which is commonly used to treat hormone-sensitive prostate cancers. Further treatment options are being considered based on his overall health and the extent of cancer spread.
The announcement coincides with the upcoming release of a book alleging a White House cover-up of Biden’s previous cognitive decline, raising questions about transparency during his presidency.
Media Reaction
ABC News explains what a Gleason score of 9 means – explaining a score of 9 means his cancer is aggressive. The grading system usually ranges from 6 to 10.
Local San Fran newspaper abc7 news speaks to local doctors who say the former president’s cancer is likely ‘generally incurable’ but likely treatable.
Fox News says the “aggressive form” of prostate cancer has a five-year survival rate of between 30% and 40%.