Joe Biden is currently undergoing radiation therapy for prostate cancer, a diagnosis that has drawn significant attention. According to a spokesperson for the former US president, Biden began this new phase of treatment after his cancer was identified earlier this year in May. But here's where it gets controversial: the treatment regime combines radiation therapy with hormone therapy, showing a more aggressive approach than some might expect for his condition.
“As part of his comprehensive prostate cancer treatment plan, President Biden is now receiving radiation therapy alongside hormone medication,” the spokesperson confirmed on Saturday morning. NBC was the first to break the news, highlighting its significance in Biden's ongoing health journey.
This latest treatment is planned to extend over five weeks, signaling a crucial progression in Biden’s care routine. Previously, he had been managing his condition using hormone pills, a strategy he openly discussed during spring when reporters asked about his health status. This layered treatment approach is common for prostate cancer but also raises questions about patient quality of life and treatment impacts, something many might overlook.
Biden’s cancer was characterized in May as an "aggressive form" that had already spread to his bones — a serious development that his office disclosed publicly. The timing coincides with major political transitions: Biden stepped down as president in January after the 2024 election saw Republican Donald Trump elected as the 47th president of the United States. The intersection of political change and personal health challenges makes this story particularly complex.
He spoke openly about his diagnosis for the first time later in May, expressing a hopeful outlook. Biden stated he was optimistic regarding his treatment outcomes and said, "the expectation is we are going to be able to beat this," showing a determination that resonates with many fighting similar battles.
Since leaving office, Biden has returned to his home in Delaware and is approaching his 83rd birthday next month. His age and health status spark discussions about the toll public office takes on leaders and the support they receive afterward.
Additionally, in September, Biden underwent Mohs surgery, a precise procedure to remove cancerous skin cells. This recent surgery adds another layer to the ongoing conversation about cancer prevention and treatment in high-profile figures.
These updates on Biden’s health shed light not only on the physical struggles a former president endures but also on the broader implications for public awareness about prostate cancer treatment options. How transparent should public figures be about their health? Does knowing about Biden's treatment encourage people to take screenings more seriously, or does it raise concerns about privacy and political image? This is the part most people miss when focusing solely on political narratives.
Reuters contributed to this reporting.
