LIVE UPDATES
WASHINGTON —Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with a highly aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasised to his bones, his office confirmed in a statement released on Sunday.
“Last week, President Joe Biden was evaluated for a newly detected prostate nodule following an increase in urinary symptoms. On Friday, he received a diagnosis of prostate cancer, identified by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), with evidence of the disease having spread to the bones,” the statement read.
“Although this reflects a more serious form of the illness, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management,” the statement continued.
The Gleason score, which measures how abnormal cancer cells appear under a microscope, ranges from 6 to 10. A score of 9 indicates one of the most aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
The diagnosis followed a routine medical check prompted by worsening symptoms. Prostate cancer is among the most common cancers in men, particularly those over 65. When caught early, the disease is highly treatable. However, once it metastasises spreads to bones or other parts of the body treatment becomes significantly more challenging.
Biden, who is 81, is currently reviewing treatment options with his medical team and family. Potential treatments for metastatic prostate cancer include hormone therapy, radiation, chemotherapy, and emerging immunotherapies.
Biden’s health has been a frequent subject of public scrutiny, especially during and after his presidency. He previously underwent treatment for basal cell carcinoma in 2023 and had a precancerous colon polyp removed in 2021.
As the former president continues to weigh medical advice, public figures and health organisations have expressed support and encouraged awareness about prostate health.
Follow Rocketparrot News for continuous updates on this developing story.
