President Biden has begun a new phase of treatment involving radiation therapy for his previously diagnosed metastatic prostate cancer, according to a statement from his spokesperson on Saturday. The treatment plan, which also includes hormone therapy, comes after the discovery of a prostate nodule in May and is aimed at managing the hormone-sensitive cancer.
At the age of 82, the President's health has been a subject of public interest, especially following a recent prognosis that the cancer had spread to his bones. This advanced stage of the disease is often considered serious and potentially life-threatening. President Biden's medical history includes several significant challenges, such as two brain aneurysms in 1988, from which he recovered despite a grave initial prognosis.
In addition to ongoing cancer treatment, President Biden underwent Mohs surgery last month to remove cancerous skin cells. This follows a similar procedure during his presidency to excise a lesion from his chest. Throughout his political career, President Biden has been transparent about his medical issues, which have included life-threatening conditions.
While serving as President, Biden and First Lady Jill Biden were advocates for the "Cancer Moonshot" initiative, which aims to significantly reduce cancer mortality over 25 years. The initiative has been a key part of his legacy in public service.
The update on President Biden's health contrasts with the recent declaration of President Trump's "exceptional health" post his physical at Walter Reed. Dr. Sean Barbabella, White House physician, noted that President Trump, at 79, exhibits a cardiac age significantly younger than his chronological age.
No specific timeline has been provided for the duration or expected outcomes of President Biden's radiation therapy. Medical experts note that while radiation and hormone therapy can slow prostate cancer's progression, these treatments are not curative at the stage of bone involvement.
The revelation of President Biden's health situation raises questions about his future role in public life as he continues aggressive treatment for his condition. As he approaches his 83rd birthday, Biden is facing one of the most challenging health battles of his long career in public service.
Despite the severity of his illness, the collective hope is for President Biden to successfully navigate through his treatment. The New York Post shared news of his treatment phase on Twitter, reflecting widespread media coverage of this development.
