Former U.S. President Joe Biden speaks at a conference hosted by the Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD) on April 15, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.Getty

Former US President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, his personal office said in a statement yesterday, Sunday, May 18.

"Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule after experiencing increasing 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.

"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."

Speaking to AP, Dr. Matthew Smith of Massachusetts General Brigham Cancer Center said in recent decades, outcomes have improved and patients can live with metastatic prostate cancer for four or five years. 

He said, "It’s very treatable, but not curable.

“Most men in this situation would be treated with drugs and would not be advised to have either surgery or radiation therapy.”

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Both Republicans and Democrats have reached out with well wishes. On Truth Social, President Donald Trump wrote: "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."

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who served in the White House with Biden, wrote on X: "Doug and I are saddened to learn of President Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis. We are keeping him, Dr. Biden, and their entire family in our hearts and prayers during this time. 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."

On X, former President Barack Obama wrote: "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."