U.S. President Joe Biden has begun radiation therapy for an aggressive form of prostate cancer, according to his spokesperson. The diagnosis, first revealed in May 2025, has drawn significant public attention due to Biden’s age and his continued prominence in national life.
Biden, who turned 83 this year, remains one of the most closely followed political figures in America. His health has been under public scrutiny since his time as the nation’s oldest sitting president, and again after he withdrew from the 2024 presidential race citing health concerns.
A representative for Biden confirmed to NBC News that he is now undergoing a five-week course of radiation therapy, along with ongoing hormone treatment, as part of his cancer management plan. The treatment follows his earlier Mohs surgery in September 2025, during which doctors successfully removed skin cancer lesions with no need for further procedures.
Biden’s prostate cancer was characterized as aggressive and metastatic, with a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) indicating that it had spread to the bone. However, doctors noted that the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective treatment options.
In a statement shared by his office in May, Biden’s team said:
“President Joe Biden was diagnosed with prostate cancer after experiencing urinary symptoms. While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer is hormone-sensitive, allowing for effective management. The President and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians.”
Following the announcement, Biden expressed gratitude for public support, saying:
“Cancer touches us all. Like so many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places. Thank you for lifting us up with love and support.”
Former President Donald Trump, now 79, also issued a supportive message on Truth Social, writing:
“Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s diagnosis. We send our warmest wishes to Jill and the family and hope for his full and speedy recovery.”
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States, with an estimated 313,000 new cases and over 35,000 deaths expected this year. The ACS encourages men aged 50 and older and Black men or those with a family history of prostate cancer beginning at age 45 to discuss screening options with their healthcare providers.
Early detection remains crucial: the five-year survival rate for prostate cancer that spreads to distant organs is 38%, while early-stage detection has a nearly 100% survival rate.
Despite ongoing treatment, Biden continues to make occasional public appearances. His last major speech was at the ACRD Conference in Chicago in April, where he appeared upbeat and engaged with attendees.
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