Joe Biden, the 82-year-old former President, is set to undergo radiation therapy to combat an aggressive form of prostate cancer, as announced by his spokesperson.
Alongside radiation, Biden will also receive hormone therapy, with the radiation treatment expected to span five weeks. The Democratic leader has already commenced hormone medication.
In May, Biden disclosed that his cancer had metastasized to his bones. This revelation followed a recent treatment for skin cancer, during which he was seen with a noticeable bandage on his forehead at public events. According to the Daily Mail, the May announcement came shortly after it was reported that a 'small nodule' on Biden's prostate required 'further evaluation.' This nodule was identified during a routine physical examination, as confirmed by his office.
At the time of diagnosis, a statement from his office detailed: "President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason Score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone." The Gleason score, which assesses the appearance of cancerous cells compared to normal ones, indicated that Biden's cancer is particularly aggressive. However, his office noted that the cancer's hormone sensitivity allows for effective management.
Biden, who will turn 83 next month, holds the distinction of being the oldest individual to have served as President of the United States. Prostate issues are not uncommon among men of his age, with the American Cancer Society noting that over half of prostate cancer cases occur in men over 65. A nodule, which can be a benign lump or swelling, sometimes signals more serious health concerns, such as infections or cancer.
Concerns regarding Biden's age, health, and suitability for office ultimately led to his decision to step aside from a reelection bid, paving the way for then-Vice President Kamala Harris to assume leadership. Within the Democratic Party, there is growing acknowledgment that Biden should not have pursued a 2024 reelection campaign. Some party members allege they were misled by advisers who shielded Biden from public scrutiny while assuring them of his fitness.
Sources from The Washington Post reveal that Biden harbors resentment over his withdrawal from the 2024 race and frequently engages in discussions with his team about addressing President Donald Trump's policies and actions. Since leaving office, Biden has been occupied with writing a memoir and establishing a foundation for a presidential library, as reported by The Post.
Tragically, Biden's son, Beau Biden, succumbed to cancer at 46 in 2015, two years after being diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme, an aggressive brain cancer. Biden has attributed his son's illness to exposure to military burn pits during his service in Iraq.
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