Former President Joe Biden has recently been diagnosed with an “aggressive” form of prostate cancer, which has spread to his bones. His office has confirmed that he is currently exploring various treatment options.
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On Friday, the 82-year-old Democrat received this diagnosis following the onset of urinary symptoms, which led to the discovery of a prostate nodule, as detailed in a statement from Mr. Biden’s office.
“This diagnosis indicates a more aggressive form of the disease; however, the cancer is hormone-sensitive, allowing for effective management,” the statement read. Mr. Biden and his family are in the process of consulting with his medical team regarding treatment possibilities.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Mr. Biden expressed his gratitude to the American public for their “love and support,” sharing a photo of himself alongside his wife, Jill Biden. He stated, “Cancer touches us all. Like so many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places. Thank you for lifting us up with love and support.”
Former President Donald Trump, who has often criticized Mr. Biden’s cognitive abilities, shared his sentiments about the diagnosis. “We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery,” he posted on Truth Social.
Vice President Kamala Harris also took to social media to emphasize Mr. Biden’s resilience. She remarked, “Joe is a fighter. 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.”
U.S. Vice President JD Vance raised concerns regarding Mr. Biden’s health during his time in office. Speaking aboard Air Force One, he acknowledged the necessity of wishing Mr. Biden well in his recovery, while simultaneously questioning his capability during his presidency. “We can pray for good health but also recognize that if one isn’t in good enough health to do the job, then one should not do the job,” he stated.
Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer among men, with the American Cancer Society estimating that one in eight men in the United States will receive a diagnosis. Although highly treatable if caught early, it remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men. Hormone therapy is often employed to shrink tumors and slow cancer growth, although it is not a definitive cure.
According to the statement, Mr. Biden’s cancer has been assigned a “Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5),” indicating a severe form of the disease. The American Cancer Society notes that cancers displaying significant abnormalities are rated at Grade 5, the highest level of severity.
Former President Barack Obama commented, emphasizing Mr. Biden’s determination: “He will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace.”
During his time in office, Mr. Biden faced persistent questions regarding his health and age. His trademark response was simple yet steadfast: “Watch me.” After a difficult debate in July, he was forced to withdraw from re-election, allowing Vice President Harris to assume the Democratic nomination. Despite her efforts, she ultimately lost to Donald Trump.
Mr. Biden, who triumphed over Trump in the 2020 elections, has maintained confidence in his potential for the upcoming election. However, concerns about his health and the responses of staff members have become focal points in recent discussions, particularly with the impending release of a book questioning his decision to seek re-election.
Mr. Biden’s personal history is marked by profound sorrow; his first wife and daughter tragically lost their lives in a car accident in 1972, and his son Beau passed away from an aggressive brain cancer in 2015, a loss that resonated deeply with many Americans. Following Beau’s death, then-President Obama initiated a “cancer moonshot” initiative, assigning Mr. Biden to lead the effort. “It’s personal for me,” Mr. Biden remarked about the initiative. “But it’s also personal for nearly every American and millions of people around the world. We all know someone who has had cancer or is fighting to beat it.”
“Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer in all its forms than Joe,” Mr. Obama affirmed. “I am certain he will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace.”
In closing, let us continue to support one another through such challenging times.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
