A Recent Diagnosis: Aggressive, Metastatic Prostate Cancer
In a significant development in May 2025, Joe Biden was diagnosed with an aggressive and metastatic form of prostate cancer. This diagnosis followed the discovery of a prostate nodule and increasing urinary symptoms, prompting a medical evaluation.
- Gleason Score: The cancer was characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), indicating it is highly aggressive with a potential for rapid growth and spread.
- Metastasis: The cancer had already spread from the prostate to the bones, classifying it as Stage 4.
- Hormone-Sensitive: Despite its aggressive nature, the cancer was noted as being hormone-sensitive, allowing for effective management through androgen deprivation therapy.
Chronic and Well-Managed Conditions
For many years, President Biden’s medical reports have disclosed several ongoing conditions that are described as stable and well-managed through medication or other treatments.
- Non-valvular Atrial Fibrillation (A-fib): This irregular heart rhythm was first identified in 2003 and has been consistently noted in subsequent physicals. He has remained asymptomatic and has not required medication or electrical treatment for the condition.
- Hyperlipidemia: A condition of high cholesterol, it is regularly monitored and managed with medication.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux: Commonly known as GERD, this condition is also managed with medication.
- Seasonal Allergies: These are treated with over-the-counter medication.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea: After symptoms were noted, a formal sleep study confirmed the diagnosis in 2024. Biden began using a positive airway pressure (PAP) device to improve his sleep quality.
- Spinal Arthritis: Resulting from age-related wear and tear, this condition is cited as the reason for his stiffer gait. Physicals have indicated that while present, it is not severe enough to require specific treatment.
- Mild Sensory Peripheral Neuropathy: Affecting his feet, this nerve damage can cause changes in sensation and is another contributing factor to his gait changes.
Historical Health Events and Surgeries
Biden’s medical record includes a number of significant health events from earlier in his life and career, including life-threatening brain aneurysms.
- Brain Aneurysms (1988): At age 45, Biden experienced two life-threatening brain aneurysms. Emergency surgery was performed successfully, and he has had no recurrence.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (2023): A cancerous skin lesion was removed from his chest. The White House reported that all cancerous tissue was successfully excised and no further treatment was required. This is one of several non-melanoma skin cancers he has had removed throughout his life, attributed to extensive sun exposure.
- Foot Fracture (2020): He suffered a foot fracture while playing with his dog, which required the use of a walking boot during recovery.
The Discussion Around Cognitive Health
Public concern and political scrutiny regarding Biden's cognitive fitness escalated significantly during his presidency. These questions were amplified after specific public appearances and verbal miscues, particularly a debate performance in June 2024 that was widely criticized.
While his physicians consistently deemed him fit for duty following standard physicals, controversy arose over the lack of a formal cognitive test. White House staff and Biden himself argued that his daily responsibilities constituted a sufficient test. However, some neurological experts and critics argued that formal neurocognitive testing is necessary for a comprehensive assessment. Reports also surfaced in September 2025 that a former chief of staff testified to a House committee about Biden's struggles with recalling names and dates, further fueling the inquiry.
Comparison of Medical Profile: Biden vs. Average Older Male
| Condition | Joe Biden (82+ Years) | Average Male (80+ Years) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prostate Cancer | Aggressive, metastatic (Gleason 9), diagnosed May 2025. Hormone-sensitive and being managed. | ~1 in 8 men get prostate cancer in their lifetime. Death rate is lower than historical norms due to treatment advances. | High-grade metastatic cancer is a significant event, even with advanced treatments prolonging life. |
| Atrial Fibrillation | Long-standing (since 2003), asymptomatic. Well-managed without medication or electrical treatment. | Prevalence increases with age, affecting ~11% of individuals 80+ [Source]. | Biden's asymptomatic presentation is favorable but still a monitored condition. |
| Cardiovascular Health | Takes medication for hyperlipidemia. Exercises regularly. | Heart disease risk factors increase significantly with age, including high cholesterol and irregular heart rhythms [Source]. | Management of cardiovascular risk factors is a key component of healthy aging. |
| Gait Issues | Stiffened gait due to spinal arthritis and peripheral neuropathy. Has not worsened since 2023. | Gait instability is common due to age-related changes in muscle, bone, and nerves. Increased risk of falls [Source]. | While a known issue, his condition is described as stable. |
Conclusion
Joe Biden's health history is a complex narrative blending age-related changes, managed chronic conditions, and several significant acute medical events, both past and present. The most serious recent development is his diagnosis of aggressive prostate cancer, which requires ongoing management. While political and public debate over his cognitive fitness has been substantial, particularly in light of age and public performance, his official medical reports and neurological exams have not confirmed serious central neurological disorders. The overall assessment is a combination of well-documented conditions and public speculation, a dynamic that will likely persist given his prominent public life. For detailed records, refer to the President's medical reports filed with the White House and National Archives.
