Former U.S. President acknowledges support after announcement of aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis.
On May 19, 2025, U.S. President
Joe Biden expressed gratitude to his supporters for their love and encouragement following news that he has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer.
In a message posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, Biden, aged 82, shared a photo with his wife, Jill, stating, "Cancer touches us all.
Like many of you, Jill and I have learned that it is when life hits us that we are strongest.
Thank you for supporting us with love and encouragement."
The Biden team announced the diagnosis the previous day, revealing that he has an aggressive prostate cancer with bone metastases and a Gleason score of 9 out of a possible 10, indicating a high level of aggression.
Prostate cancer is currently the most common cancer among men, accounting for 15% of all male cancers.
The prostate is a male gland that primarily produces a fluid that comprises a significant component of semen.
According to the American Cancer Society, while prostate cancer can be survivable when detected early, it is the second leading cause of cancer death among men.
The importance of early detection was highlighted in their statement.
Biden's representatives confirmed that he and his family are evaluating treatment options with his medical team.
In 2023, Biden underwent surgery for a small chest lesion that was found to be cancerous.
During his presidency, he initiated significant research and funding initiatives aimed at curing cancer, with a bold goal to reduce cancer mortality by 50% within 25 years.
Messages of support have flooded in since the announcement of Biden's diagnosis.
Former President Barack Obama stated, "No one has done more than Joe in the fight against cancer.
I am confident he will meet this challenge with the determination and grace that define him."
Current President
Donald Trump also expressed his sadness regarding Biden's cancer diagnosis, wishing him a "speedy and successful recovery" after years of mocking Biden's physical abilities in the lead-up to the 2020 presidential election.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Biden as a "fighter," affirming, "I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership." Her comments came amid Biden's decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, prompted in part by concerns over his health following a controversial debate with Trump.
The debate reignited discussions regarding the perceived decline of Biden during his presidency, particularly after a recording surfaced where he struggled to recall significant dates from his life.
A forthcoming investigative book by journalists Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson will explore how the White House reportedly concealed details of the president's growing weaknesses as he continued to seek re-election.
Over the past weeks, Biden has denied claims of cognitive decline, asserting that he successfully carried out his presidential duties even after stepping back from the race.
"After I withdrew from the presidential race, I was still president for six months, and I did a good job," he stated in early May.