Joe Biden's first post after 'aggressive' prostate cancer diagnosis: 'I have learned that…'

Former US President Joe Biden took to X, to thank the public for the "love and support" following the announcement of his prostate cancer diagnosis. In a statement released on Sunday, his office confirmed that the 82-year-old had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones.

“Cancer touches us all. Like so many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places. Thank you for lifting us up with love and support,” Joe Biden posted on X.

Joe Biden diagnosed with prostrate cancer

The diagnosis came after Joe Biden reported experiencing urinary symptoms, prompting doctors to conduct further tests, which revealed a concerning nodule on his prostate. 

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men, with the American Cancer Society estimating that one in eight men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with it during their lifetime. Although it's highly treatable when caught early, it remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men, the organisation noted.

Biden's prostate cancer has been classified as Stage 4, with a Gleason score of 9—indicating one of the most aggressive forms of the disease—and has already spread to the bones, reported the The New York Times, citing a statement from the ex-POTUS's office.

The Gleason score is a grading system used to evaluate how abnormal prostate cancer cells appear under a microscope. Scores of 9 or 10 suggest a fast-growing, high-risk cancer.

'Cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive'

“While this (the score) represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management,” reads the statement from Joe Biden’s office, which was unsigned, reported The New York Times.

“The president and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians," added the statement.

PM Modi wishes Biden quick recovery

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday wished for a “quick and full recovery” for Joe Biden.

Taking to X, PM Modi expressed his concern over the former US President's health and extended best wishes to him.

“Deeply concerned to hear about @JoeBiden's health. Extend our best wishes to him for a quick and full recovery. Our thoughts are with Dr. Jill Biden and the family,” he said in the post.