Joe Biden Cancer Diagnosis: Political and Celebrity Reactions

Former US President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, according to a statement released by his office on Sunday.

Biden, who left office in January, received the diagnosis on Friday after consulting a doctor about urinary symptoms earlier in the week.

The cancer is identified as a more aggressive form, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 out of 10, indicating a high-grade malignancy with the potential to spread rapidly, as per Cancer Research UK.

Despite the severity, his office stated that the cancer remains hormone-sensitive, suggesting that treatment could be effective.

“Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms. On Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterised by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone.

While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management,” the statement read.

The news prompted an outpouring of support from politicians and celebrities alike.

Former President Donald Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social, expressing his concern:

“We are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis. We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family. We wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.”

Kamala Harris, Biden’s former Vice President, also shared a heartfelt message on X, formerly known as Twitter:

“Joe is a fighter – and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership. Doug and I are keeping the Biden family in our prayers.”

Former President Barack Obama, under whom Biden served as Vice President, expressed his support in a reflective post on X:

“Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer in all its forms than Joe, and I am certain he will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace. We pray for a fast and full recovery.”

In 2016, Obama appointed Biden to lead the “Cancer Moonshot” initiative, a research program aimed at accelerating cancer treatment breakthroughs.

Celebrities also chimed in, offering their prayers and well-wishes:

Oprah Winfrey posted on Instagram:

“Sending love and healing energy to President Biden and his family during this difficult time. We’re all rooting for you, Joe.”

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who had previously spoken about his admiration for Biden, tweeted:

“Stay strong, Mr. President. You’ve faced tough battles before and emerged victorious. Wishing you a speedy recovery.”

Ellen DeGeneres expressed her support with a message on her social media platforms:

“Thinking of Joe Biden and his family. Sending them love and light during this challenging time.”

Biden and his family are said to be reviewing treatment options and will provide further updates as they become available.