Biden Diagnosed with Aggressive Prostate Cancer; Trump Suggests Concealment
Former President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer, his services announced Sunday. The diagnosis has sparked renewed speculation about the transparency of his health during his time in office.
details of the Diagnosis
According to a statement released by biden’s office, the cancer was detected a few days prior and is characterized as “aggressive” with ”bone metastases.” The cancer registered a level 9 on the Gleason score, a scale used to assess the aggressiveness of prostate cancer, which ranges from 2 to 10.
trump’s reaction and Speculation
Former President donald Trump commented on the diagnosis, suggesting the data may have been known and concealed prior to its recent disclosure. ”I am surprised that the public has not been informed for a long time,” Trump told reporters, adding, “It takes a lot of time to arrive (…) at a stadium 9.”
Medical Perspectives
While routine screenings often catch prostate cancer early, some medical professionals suggest Biden’s case may have either been missed or developed rapidly.
We cannot exclude that it is an aggressive form that has developed quickly.
Natacha Naoun, oncologist at the French Institute Gustave-Roussy
Otis Brawley, professor of oncology at Johns Hopkins University, noted the limitations of standard screening methods, such as rectal exams and PSA level measurements, especially for men over 70.”It is not uncommon for a man to be diagnosed with a metastatic form of prostate disease despite normal annual screening,” Brawley said.
Prostate Cancer: A Common Threat
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and the second leading cause of cancer death in this population. The prostate is a gland located near the bladder.
Biden’s office stated that he and his family are discussing treatment options with his doctors. The Biden family has been personally affected by cancer; Beau Biden,the former president’s eldest son,died of brain cancer in 2015 at the age of 46. During his presidency, Biden launched a major initiative aimed at reducing cancer mortality by 50% over 25 years.
Reactions and Support
Following the announcement, messages of support poured in. Trump expressed his sadness and wished Biden a quick recovery, a contrast to past remarks about Biden’s physical and cognitive abilities. Former Vice President Kamala Harris called Biden “a fighter.” King Charles III, who is also battling cancer, reportedly sent a letter to Biden.
biden acknowledged the support on social media, writing, “Thank you for supporting us with love and encouragement,” accompanied by a photo with his wife.
Concerns About Biden’s Health
The diagnosis has reignited discussions about Biden’s health, particularly following the release of a 2023 recording where he appeared to struggle with dates. A forthcoming book also alleges that the White House concealed his declining health as he pursued re-election.
Biden, the oldest president in U.S. history,has previously denied experiencing cognitive decline. “After having retired from the presidential race, I was still president for six months, and I did a good job,” he said in early May on ABC.
