Biden Begins New Phase of Prostate Cancer Treatment

Former U.S. President Joe Biden has entered a new stage in his battle against aggressive prostate cancer, a diagnosis he received in May. "As part of his prostate cancer treatment plan, President Biden is currently undergoing both radiation therapy and hormone treatments," stated his spokesperson, as reported by Telemundo.

This current phase involves five weeks of radiation therapy. Previously, Biden had been taking a hormone therapy pill. Last September, he also underwent Mohs surgery, a skin cancer treatment, which left him with a noticeable bandage on his forehead.

After the initial diagnosis in May, Biden shared a message of positivity and resilience. "Cancer affects all of us. Like many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are stronger during tough times. Thank you for cheering us on with your love and support," he posted on his official X account. The post included a family photograph: Biden smiling beside his more serious-looking wife, Jill, and their cat, Willow.

International media highlighted that Biden's message reflects a life philosophy he has often reiterated: the belief that people find strength in "broken places." This idea, inspired by Ernest Hemingway's renowned novel, "A Farewell to Arms," has been a recurring theme during Biden's most challenging times.

Biden's prostate cancer was diagnosed with a Gleason score of 9, indicating the highest level of aggressiveness, and has already metastasized to the bones. The discovery came after a routine physical examination revealed a nodule in the prostate that warranted further investigation. Although the cancer is invasive, the official statement noted that "the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, allowing for effective treatment."

At 82 years old, this diagnosis presents a significant challenge, and experts agree that a cure is unlikely. Dr. Michael Tyler, an oncologist at Broward Health Medical Center, explained that "the cancer has already spread beyond the prostate, placing it in a different category." Nevertheless, there are hormone therapies and agents available to slow the disease's progression. "Generally, when cancer spreads beyond the prostate, our options for a cure are limited," Tyler told Local 10.