Washington, 19 May (H.S.): Joe Biden, the former U.S. President, has been diagnosed with an aggressive type of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, according to an announcement made by his office on Sunday. This diagnosis followed the onset of urinary symptoms, leading to the identification of a prostate nodule. The Biden family is currently exploring treatment options. Despite being aggressive, the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which may enhance management effectiveness. At 82 years old, Biden previously lost his son Beau to cancer in 2015. The cancer has a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), indicating a severe level of the disease, with Grade 5 representing the highest rating for prostate cancer, recognized as particularly abnormal by the American Cancer Society. The Gleason score can peak at 10, marking the gravity of the condition.
Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer among men, with the American Cancer Society estimating that one in eight men in the U.S. will face a diagnosis in their lifetime. While early detection significantly improves treatability, it remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men. In reaction to Biden’s diagnosis, former President Donald Trump expressed his sadness and sent well wishes for a speedy recovery via Truth Social. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris acknowledged Biden’s enduring strength and resilience, expressing faith in his ability to confront this medical challenge, which aligns with the character that has defined his leadership.
Public support has been abundant, with concern for Biden transcending political divisions. Former President Barack Obama shared his good wishes for Biden’s recovery on X, stating that he and Michelle are thinking of the Biden family during this tough period. Obama commended Biden’s commitment to advancing cancer treatment and expressed confidence in his ability to tackle health issues with resilience and strength, hoping for a swift and full recovery. Overall, the responses illustrate a deep-seated bipartisan support and concern for Biden amid his health struggles.
Biden’s political path has encountered notable obstacles, particularly following his withdrawal from the 2024 reelection race due to a disappointing debate performance against Trump in July of the previous year. This withdrawal fueled conversations about his health and cognitive decline, leading to a surge in support for Vice President Harris, who eventually lost to Trump in the election. Even though Biden defeated Trump in the 2020 election, he has consistently claimed that he could have achieved victory in 2024. However, worries persist about the reactions of his staff and fellow Democrats to his declining health, especially with an upcoming book critical of his reelection decision. Recent audio recordings of Biden struggling to articulate his thoughts and recall key events have heightened this unease.
Concurrently, a remark Biden made in 2022 resurfaced, in which he mentioned having cancer and how environmental factors in Delaware affected cancer rates. He cited issues related to a local coal plant and their correlation with health problems experienced by him and others in his community. This statement reignited concerns about his health, prompting the White House to clarify that Biden was alluding to previously treated skin cancer prior to his presidency.
This timeframe has underscored the intense scrutiny surrounding Biden’s health, the shifting political landscape within his party, and the growing public interest in his future political decisions.
—————
Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar
