Former President Joe Biden’s prostate cancer has worsened over the past year, as revealed by his son, Hunter Biden, in a recent interview with BBC Newsnight. Hunter detailed the spread of the cancer, saying it has metastasized into his father’s bones, causing significant pain and debilitation. He also expressed concerns about his father’s health condition, indicating that it is troubling to witness.
Biden, at 83, first announced his diagnosis in May 2025 after a routine exam revealed a small nodule in his prostate. Despite the aggressive nature of the disease, the cancer’s hormone-sensitive status allows for effective management. Biden has completed courses of hormone therapy and radiation at Penn Medicine Radiation Oncology in Philadelphia. His family, alongside his physicians, continues to explore treatment options.
Understanding Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer originates in the prostate gland and primarily affects men. The American Cancer Society notes a rise in cases, with incidents growing at approximately 3% annually from 2014 to 2021. Advanced-stage prostate cancer rates increased by about 5% each year during this period.
By 2026, an estimated 333,830 new cases are expected in the U.S., with around 36,320 men projected to die from the disease. Prostate cancer ranks as the second-most common cancer in men, following skin cancer.
Symptoms and Detection
Early detection often occurs in men undergoing routine screenings, before symptoms manifest. Common early symptoms include urinary issues, a weakened urinary stream, or an increased frequency of urination. Blood in urine or bodily fluids may be noticeable.
Advanced symptoms arise as the disease progresses, potentially causing pain in various body parts and issues like erectile dysfunction, significant weight loss, fatigue, weakness in limbs, or loss of bladder/bowel control.
Screening Guidelines
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that men aged 55 to 69 have the option to undergo prostate-specific antigen (PSA)-based screenings. Discussions with a clinician help men weigh screening benefits and risks, allowing for informed decisions. Research continues into alternative non-invasive screening methods, such as a urine test.
Survival Rates
The five-year survival rate for localized prostate cancer remains at least 99%, with similar rates for regional dissemination. However, when cancer spreads to distant body parts, the rate drops to 37%. Outcomes vary based on factors like age, health, post-diagnosis progression, and treatment response, according to the American Cancer Society.
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