Joe Biden addressed the public for the first time on Monday following his diagnosis with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones.
In a message shared on social media, he wrote, “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.”
Biden’s office confirmed the diagnosis on Sunday, noting that he had been evaluated for a prostate nodule after experiencing worsening urinary symptoms. The cancer, identified with a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), is metastatic but hormone-sensitive, which allows for viable treatment options. The 82-year-old former president and his family are currently considering next steps.
Vice President Kamala Harris, who became the Democratic nominee after Biden stepped down in July 2024, praised Biden’s strength and optimism, calling him “a fighter.” Former President Barack Obama also expressed support, highlighting Biden’s longstanding commitment to cancer research and expressing confidence in his resilience.
King Charles, who is undergoing cancer treatment himself, sent a personal message of support to Biden. The two share a warm relationship, having met multiple times in recent years. Biden had previously expressed concern and well wishes when Charles revealed his own diagnosis earlier this year.
Current President Donald Trump offered a sympathetic message, referring to Biden simply as “Joe,” mirroring Biden’s tone following a recent attempt on Trump’s life. However, Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., spread unfounded conspiracy theories about the diagnosis online, suggesting a cover-up. Similar baseless claims were echoed by Republican Congressman Ronny Jackson.
The diagnosis comes amid scrutiny of the Trump administration’s 31% reduction in federal cancer research funding, as detailed in a recent Senate report.