US ex-president breaks silence on cancer diagnosis

US ex-President Joe Biden has commented for the first time on the news of his prostate cancer diagnosis, which has reportedly spread to his bones.

“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,” Caliber.Az reports, citing Biden’s message on X, sharing a photo with his wife Jill Biden and expressing gratitude for the support.

US ex-President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasised to his bones. The diagnosis followed his report of urinary symptoms, leading to the discovery of a prostate nodule during a routine physical exam. The cancer has a high Gleason score of 9, indicating a highly aggressive form, but it is hormone-sensitive, which allows for potential management through hormone-depriving treatments rather than surgery or radiation. Biden, aged 82, and his family are currently evaluating treatment options. Medical experts note that while this type of cancer is treatable, it is not curable, with patients typically living four to five years with the disease.

This diagnosis adds to Biden's history of health issues, including a brain aneurysm in 1988, pulmonary embolisms in 1989, gallbladder surgery and atrial fibrillation in 2003, and a skin cancer diagnosis in 2023. He also battled COVID-19 twice during his presidency and showed signs of cognitive strain in a 2024 debate, which led to his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race. Following the announcement, political figures from both parties, including former Presidents Donald Trump and Barack Obama, Vice President Kamala Harris, and congressional leaders, have expressed their support and well wishes for Biden and his family.

By Naila Huseynova