Joe Biden, 82, is beginning a new round of treatment for prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. Earlier this year, he announced that he had been diagnosed with the disease and recently shared another update about his health.
His office said in May that Biden had been seen for a prostate nodule after noticing increased urinary symptoms. The statement said: “On Friday he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone.” The score indicates one of the most aggressive types of prostate cancer.
A spokesperson confirmed on October 11 that Biden is now undergoing radiation therapy to treat the cancer. The spokesperson said: “As part of a treatment plan for prostate cancer, President Biden is currently undergoing radiation therapy and hormone treatment.” Reports said the radiation is expected to last five weeks, and Biden has already started taking hormone medication.
When Biden’s diagnosis was first shared in May, his team described it as aggressive but noted that the cancer was hormone-sensitive, which could make it more manageable.
The earlier statement said: “While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management. The President and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians.”
Biden also spoke personally about his treatment plans, saying: “It’s all a matter of taking a pill, one particular pill, for the next six weeks and then another one. Well, the prognosis is good. You know, we’re working on everything. It’s moving along. So I feel good.”
He shared a photo of himself with his wife, Jill, and their cat, writing that “cancer touches us all.” He thanked everyone who had offered kind words and support as he continues treatment.
