New Delhi: Former United States President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has now metastasised to his bones, according to a statement released by his office.
The diagnosis after the 82-year-old complained of increasing urinary symptoms. It prompted a medical evaluation which led to the discovery of a prostate nodule. Subsequent tests confirmed the presence of cancer, with a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), indicating one of the most aggressive forms of the disease. The cancer has already spread to his bones.
‘Cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive’
“President Biden is currently reviewing treatment options with his medical team,” the statement said. “The cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management through medication.”
Medical experts have said that while this stage of prostate cancer is not curable, it is treatable. “Most men in this situation would be treated with drugs and would not be advised to have either surgery or radiation therapy,” said Dr Matthew Smith of Massachusetts General Brigham Cancer Center, while talking to news agency AP.
Most common cancer among men in the US
Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer among men in the United States and is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The prostate gland, part of the male reproductive system, is responsible for producing seminal fluid and is located just below the bladder.
Biden has faced previous health challenges, including a bout of skin cancer in 2023, when basal cell carcinoma was removed from his chest during a routine procedure.
