Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, his office announced on Sunday, confirming weeks of speculation about his health following a noticeable reduction in public appearances. According to the statement, Biden, 82, underwent a biopsy earlier this month, which revealed the presence of localized prostate cancer. His doctors say the condition is treatable and was caught in its early stages.
The news marks the first time that Biden’s office has publicly acknowledged a serious health condition since he left the White House. “President Biden has been diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer and is receiving treatment,” the brief statement said. “His medical team is optimistic, and he is in good spirits.”
The announcement did not specify what type of treatment the former president is receiving, but sources close to the family told Reuters that he has already begun a course of radiation therapy and that surgery has not been ruled out. The prognosis is considered favorable, with doctors expecting a full recovery if treatment continues without complications.
Biden, who served as the 46th President of the United States from 2021 to 2025, has long faced scrutiny regarding his health and age, particularly during his reelection campaign. Although he ultimately did not seek a second term, citing a desire to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders, Biden remained active in public life, giving speeches and supporting Democratic initiatives across the country.
Sunday’s announcement comes amid renewed public focus on the health of aging political figures in the U.S., many of whom continue to wield significant influence. Biden’s office emphasized that he has maintained a light work schedule and continues to be involved in mentoring younger political leaders.
President Donald Trump, who succeeded Biden after the 2024 election, issued a brief statement wishing his predecessor a speedy recovery. “We may have our political differences, but we all wish President Biden well in this battle. Cancer affects everyone,” Trump said.
Messages of support have poured in from across the political spectrum. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called Biden “a fighter through and through,” while former President Barack Obama wrote on social media, “Joe has beaten adversity before—he’ll beat this too. Michelle and I are keeping him in our prayers.”
Medical experts note that prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, especially those over the age of 65. According to the American Cancer Society, it is often slow-growing and highly treatable when detected early, as appears to be the case for Biden.
Dr. Lisa Marshall, an oncologist at Johns Hopkins University, said the diagnosis was not surprising given Biden’s age. “What matters now is the management of the disease and how his body responds to treatment. Early-stage prostate cancer has one of the highest survival rates.”
While Biden’s team has promised to provide updates as appropriate, they requested privacy and respect during what they described as a “personal health matter.” Aides said the former president plans to remain active but will scale back public engagements over the next few weeks.
The announcement has renewed calls for transparency in the health disclosures of high-ranking public officials, particularly those in or recently retired from office. Political analysts say that while Biden is no longer in the political spotlight, his legacy and influence remain deeply relevant—especially as the Democratic Party navigates its post-Biden leadership path.
For now, supporters and colleagues alike are rallying around the former president, hopeful that his long career of resilience will carry him through yet another challenge.
Source: Reuters
