Biden reveals stage four prostate cancer diagnosis amid speculation
- Joe Biden announced his prostate cancer diagnosis on May 18, 2025, after experiencing concerning urinary symptoms.
- Medical experts have differing views on the reasons for the delayed diagnosis, with some suggesting it could have been developing for years.
- The controversy around Biden's health raises questions about the transparency of medical information from political leaders.
On May 18, 2025, in the United States, former President Joe Biden disclosed a diagnosis of stage four prostate cancer. The announcement followed an escalation of urinary symptoms, which led to the detection of a small nodule and elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. Medical experts have varying opinions regarding the plausibility of the timeline for Biden’s diagnosis. Some speculate that it could indicate the cancer had been developing for several years, while others claim there could be valid reasons for the late detection, especially considering standard screening recommendations for men over 70. Following Biden's announcement, notable figures, including Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, expressed surprise at the timing of the disclosure. They raised questions about why the public was not informed of Biden's health condition earlier, suggesting a lack of transparency regarding his medical history while serving as president. The former president's Gleason score of 9 indicates a highly aggressive form of the cancer, heightening concerns about his health among the public and political commentators. The cancer's stage suggests that the cancer has metastasized to the bone, exacerbating worries about Biden's overall well-being. Critics have argued that a president’s health should be scrutinized more closely, especially given that many past presidents have released medical information during their terms. Notably, several prior presidents, including Barack Obama and George W. Bush, disclosed their PSA scores while in office. Adding to the public discourse surrounding Biden's illness was the reaction of Donald Trump Jr., who, in a social media post, questioned how Jill Biden could have missed her husband’s aggressive cancer diagnosis. It is important to clarify that Jill Biden, holding a doctorate in education, is not a medical doctor. This controversy illustrates the politicization and scrutiny of personal health issues in the realm of public service, intensifying the existing discussion about transparency in political health matters, particularly as Biden navigates his presidency amidst significant health challenges.