7 urgent facts about Joe Biden's aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis

Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones, according to an official statement released Sunday.

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‎Former U.S. President Joe Biden at a conference hosted by the Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled on April 15 in Chicago.

‎Scott Olson/Getty Images

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‎Here are the seven most important things to know about his condition:

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‎1. Diagnosis Confirmed After Hospital Visit in Philadelphia

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‎President Biden was evaluated at a Philadelphia hospital last week due to increased urinary symptoms. A “small nodule” on his prostate prompted further testing.

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‎2. Cancer Type and Gleason Score Explained

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‎Biden’s prostate cancer has been classified with a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) — indicating a highly aggressive tumor. The Gleason scale ranks cancer severity from 1 to 10.

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‎3. Cancer Has Spread to the Bone (Metastasis)

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‎The cancer has already metastasized to the bone, which complicates treatment and prognosis. However, early detection may aid in management.

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‎4. Hormone-Sensitive Cancer Offers Treatment Hope

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‎Despite its aggressiveness, Biden’s cancer is described as hormone-sensitive. This type typically responds better to hormone therapy, which can slow or stop tumor growth.

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‎5. Biden’s Family Is Reviewing Treatment Options

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‎The former president and his family are currently consulting with his medical team to determine the most effective treatment path forward.

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‎6. Biden Was Previously Declared in “Good Health”

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‎Just over a year ago, Biden’s doctor found “no new concerns” during a full physical at Walter Reed. This new diagnosis suggests a rapid progression or previously undetected growth.

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‎7. Political and Public Reactions Are Mounting

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‎The diagnosis comes amid ongoing public scrutiny of Biden’s cognitive health, spurred by the release of the book Original Sin and audio from a special counsel interview. Biden recently disputed these claims on The View, stating, “There is nothing to sustain that.”

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‎As Biden, 82, faces this new personal health challenge, public focus will likely intensify on discussions about age, health, and leadership. The Biden family’s next steps may become a defining moment in the public legacy of the nation’s oldest-serving president.