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Joe Biden diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer

19.05.2025 11:55
Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer, his office confirmed in a statement on Sunday.  
Former President Joe Biden participates in a sendoff ceremony at Joint Base Andrews after President Donald Trump was sworn in as 47th President of the United States on Monday, January 20, 2025
Former President Joe Biden participates in a sendoff ceremony at Joint Base Andrews after President Donald Trump was sworn in as 47th President of the United States on Monday, January 20, 2025Photo via Leigh Vogel/UPI/Newscom/PAP

According to the statement, Biden's cancer has progressed to a Gleason score of 9, with metastases to the bone.

The Gleason scale, which ranges from 2 to 10, is used to grade the severity of prostate cancer, with scores above 8 indicating a highly aggressive and fast-spreading disease.

Despite the seriousness of the diagnosis, doctors have expressed cautious optimism, noting that effective treatment is still possible.

The announcement followed a colonoscopy performed on Friday, during which a tumor was detected. Biden, 82, has made only rare public appearances since leaving office, most recently appearing on The View on May 8.

Messages of support have so far come from figures across the political spectrum, including Kamala Harris, former President Barack Obama, and Donald Trump.  

 “Joe is a fighter - and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership. We are hopeful for a full and speedy recovery,” former Vice President Kamala Harris wrote on X (formerly Twitter). 

“Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis. We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery,” said President Donald Trump in a message shared via his official Truth Social account.

“Michelle and I are thinking of the entire Biden family. Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer in all its forms than Joe, and I am certain he will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace. We pray for a fast and full recovery,” added former President Barack Obama, who recently visited Poland to speak at Impact'25 in Poznań

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Source: IAR/PAP/X/@KamalaHarris/@BarackObama