Joe Biden Begins Five-Week Radiation Therapy for Advanced Prostate Cancer

Former US President Joe Biden has started a five-week course of radiation treatment for an aggressive form of prostate cancer. This new phase of his therapy follows his initial diagnosis announced back in May. The treatment is part of a comprehensive plan to manage the disease.

His spokesperson confirmed the therapy, which also includes hormone treatment. According to Bloomberg, this approach is standard for his specific cancer type. The cancer had previously metastasized to the bone.

Details of the Diagnosis and Treatment Plan

The cancer was first identified after President Biden experienced urinary symptoms. A prostate nodule was discovered, leading to the diagnosis. His spokesperson, Kelly Scully, stated the cancer is both hormone-sensitive and had spread to the bone.

In early September, Biden also underwent a separate procedure. He had Mohs surgery to remove cancerous cells from his skin. This highlights the various health challenges the former president is facing concurrently.

The American Cancer Society notes that radiation is a common treatment for this condition. It can help control the cancer’s progression and manage symptoms. The five-week timeline is a typical duration for such a therapeutic regimen.

Broader Impact and Public Context

This development places a renewed focus on the health of major political figures. Biden’s health was a topic of discussion during the last presidential campaign. A recent book had also detailed concerns about his well-being.

The public nature of his treatment brings awareness to prostate cancer. Many families deal with similar diagnoses. Biden himself has acknowledged the universal impact of cancer, having lost his son Beau to the disease in 2015.

His decision to drop out of the 2024 race was influenced by multiple factors. His debate performance and health considerations were part of that complex decision. He subsequently endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor.

This new phase of treatment underscores the serious nature of President Biden’s diagnosis. His five-week radiation therapy is a critical step in his ongoing health battle. The public continues to watch his progress with significant concern.

Info at your fingertips

What type of cancer does Joe Biden have?

Joe Biden has an aggressive form of prostate cancer. It was diagnosed in May and has metastasized to the bone. The cancer is also hormone-sensitive.

How long will his radiation treatment last?

His radiation therapy is expected to span five weeks. This is a standard duration for such treatment plans. It is being administered alongside hormone therapy.

Did Joe Biden have other recent cancer treatments?

Yes, he underwent Mohs surgery in early September. This procedure removed cancerous cells from his skin. It was a separate issue from his prostate cancer.

How does this affect his public role?

It keeps his health in the public spotlight. He has already concluded his presidential campaign. His treatment demonstrates his ongoing personal health challenges.

Why is hormone therapy used for this cancer?

Hormone therapy is used because his cancer is hormone-sensitive. It works by blocking testosterone from reaching cancer cells. This can help slow the disease’s progression.