A new phase in treatment for Joe Biden
Former U.S. president Joe Biden has entered a new phase of treatment for his prostate cancer, following his May revelation that he has an aggressive form of the disease. A spokesperson confirmed he is now receiving radiation therapy along with hormone treatment as part of an overall treatment plan. The combination aims to target cancer cells more effectively and manage the disease over time.
Understanding the medical context
Biden disclosed that his cancer carries a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone, indicating a particularly aggressive and spreadable disease. In prostate cancer, a high Gleason score typically signals a faster-growing tumor. Medical experts often describe this as a scenario where the cancer cells look markedly abnormal under the microscope and are more prone to progression.
In Biden’s case, doctors have indicated the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which means it may respond well to hormone therapy. Hormone treatment can slow disease progression by reducing levels of testosterone that help prostate cancer cells grow. The addition of localized radiation therapy is designed to target spots where cancer cells have spread and to control the disease more effectively.
The role of radiation therapy and duration
The radiation treatment is expected to span five weeks. This course suggests a focused, external beam approach that targets affected areas while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. Radiation can be a critical component of management for men with metastatic prostate cancer, especially when paired with hormone therapy, as it can help relieve symptoms and potentially slow disease progression.
News of the five-week regimen marks a notable shift in Biden’s care, building on prior steps including a pill-based hormone therapy. The goal of combining modalities is to stabilize the cancer, improve quality of life, and extend effective control over the disease as part of a comprehensive plan.
Previous health updates and skin cancer treatment
Earlier this year, Biden revealed a more aggressive form of the disease but emphasized that it appeared hormone-sensitive, allowing for effective management. In addition to prostate cancer treatment, he underwent Mohs surgery for skin cancer on his forehead, with a large bandage visible during public appearances. These health updates have been a part of communicating the ongoing nature of his care and monitoring.
Public health context and what it means for patients
Prostate cancer is a common condition among older men, and many cases are low-risk and monitored rather than treated aggressively. Biden’s case illustrates how treatment strategies can differ based on the cancer’s aggressiveness and spread. A Gleason score of 9 indicates cells that look very abnormal and a disease likely to grow quickly, underscoring why a multi-modality approach is often recommended for aggressive, metastatic disease.
For patients and families facing similar diagnoses, the combination of hormone therapy and radiation is a recognized option. Decisions about treatment depend on factors such as disease extent, overall health, and patient preferences, and are guided by oncology teams to balance effectiveness with quality of life.
Looking ahead
With Biden described as “doing well,” the medical team will monitor response to therapy through regular testing and imaging. The medical world will watch closely to understand how this treatment plan translates to disease stabilization and symptom management, particularly given the cancer’s bone metastasis and high Gleason score. Updates from official sources and trusted outlets will continue to inform the public’s understanding of the president’s health and the implications for public life.
