Joe Biden Battles Advanced Prostate Cancer

In a stunning announcement that raised a stink globally, Former U.S. President Joe Biden is suffering from aggressive prostate cancer, which has allegedly spread into the bones.

This news arrives at a politically tense time in the United States and has generated sympathy and speculation in different spheres.

A Routine Exam Turned Alarming

The diagnosis came after a routine physical last month. During the examination, Biden's medical team detected a suspicious nodule in his prostate. They proceeded to do some investigative testing and found that he has high grade prostate cancer, classified as Grade Group 5 on the Gleason scale, the most serious grade on the scale. This means the prostate cancer is rapidly growing. and high likelihood of spreading if it is not treated soon.

What is particularly troubling is that the cancer has already metastasized to Biden's bones, indicating he has an advanced diagnosis of the disease. The cancer has been classified as hormone-sensitive, which provides for treatment options, but it is still a serious diagnosis especially at Biden's age.

What Is Hormone-Sensitive Prostate Cancer?

Hormone-sensitive prostate cancer means that the cancer cells need male hormones (like testosterone) to grow. This type typically responds well to hormone therapy, which may lower systemic hormone levels or block the ability for cancer cells to access hormones, and improves the patient's quality of life; although it is not curative in nature, it can still greatly delay progression.

Treatments reportedly being looked into for President Biden include: androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), chemotherapy , and possibly radiation depending on whether or not Biden's cancer responds positively in the following weeks.

Health and Age Factor

At 82, Biden's diagnosis is particularly poignant. Medicine has made prostate cancer manageable, but when it comes to elderly patients, the recovery is usually more complex because of weak immune systems and comorbidities.

Doctors are weighing treatment approaches that will yield results without compromising Biden's overall health or quality of life. Reports indicate the former president is in good spirits and cooperating with the doctors.

Political and Public Reactions

The news has received strong bipartisan support.

Leaders across both parties have offered their well-wishes.

Former President Donald Trump, who once favored attacking Biden at every opportunity during their political rivalry, had a rare moment of humanity when he stated, "I wish him nothing but strength in his fight- no matter our differences."

Vice President Kamala Harris, who received Biden's endorsement for the 2024 presidential election after Biden stepped down, referred to the diagnosis as “heartbreaking news” but assured everyone that “Joe is a fighter and will face this fight as a fighter.”

Former President Barack Obama, who is friends with Biden, expressed deep sadness and concern and stated he would pray for Biden and his family.

Social Media and Conspiracy Theories

Unfortunately, not every response has had support. In some spaces and some groups, particularly among some right-wing and MAGA adopters, conspiracy theories are emerging. Some say the illness was known earlier and hidden from the public for partisan reasons, but there is no evidence of any of these claims.

But, many have encouraged conservative voices to take a deep breath and not politicize Biden's health, and be more humane and respectful.

The Bigger Picture: Prostate Cancer Awareness

Biden's diagnosis has once again brought prostate cancer awareness back into the public eye, specifically for middle-aged and elderly men. Prostate cancer is one of the most frequently occurring cancers in men, and early detection can improve survival rates dramatically.

Health officials are attempting to capitalize on this moment to encourage men over the age of 50 to have regular screenings, especially if there is a family history of cancer. More importantly, Biden's cancer diagnosis reminds us that cancer can strike anyone, including people in the highest positions of power in the world.