Former President Joe Biden’s health has been under intense public scrutiny following his diagnosis of an aggressive form of prostate cancer in May 2025. The cancer, described as highly aggressive with a Gleason score of 9, had already metastasized to his bones at the time of diagnosis, marking a serious health challenge for the 82-year-old leader. Despite the gravity of the diagnosis, Biden and his medical team expressed optimism about managing the cancer effectively through hormone therapy and other treatment options.
Adding to his health concerns, Biden recently underwent Mohs surgery in September 2025 to remove skin cancer lesions from his head. This procedure, a precise surgical technique aimed at eliminating basal cell carcinoma, one of the most common types of skin cancer, reflects ongoing vigilance in addressing his health issues. The surgeries and treatments highlight Biden’s continuing battle with two distinct cancers, bringing renewed attention to his personal resilience and the medical interventions that support his wellbeing.
Timeline of Biden’s Cancer Journey
In May 2025, Joe Biden was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer characterized by a Gleason score of 9, indicating highly malignant tumor cells. The cancer had already progressed to Stage IV, with confirmed metastases to the bones, raising serious concerns about disease advancement. This diagnosis marked the beginning of a complex and closely monitored battle for the longtime political leader.
Following the diagnosis, Biden’s medical team initiated a comprehensive treatment plan focusing on hormone therapy (androgen deprivation therapy) to slow the growth of the cancer cells. Additional options, including chemotherapy and targeted therapies, were also being considered to manage the spread and improve quality of life.
The diagnosis and treatment plan were publicly announced shortly after in May 2025, prompting a wave of reactions from the public and political circles. Many expressed support and admiration for Biden’s transparency and courage in sharing his health struggles, while others debated the potential impact on his political future. Throughout this period, Biden maintained a message of resilience and commitment to continuing his public service.
Details of the Skin Cancer Diagnosis and Surgery
In September 2025, Joe Biden underwent Mohs micrographic surgery to remove skin cancer lesions located on his head. Mohs surgery is a specialized, tissue-sparing procedure used primarily for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma—the two most common types of non-melanoma skin cancers. It involves the progressive removal and microscopic examination of thin layers of skin until only cancer-free tissue remains, maximizing preservation of healthy skin.
Biden’s skin cancer was identified during routine dermatological evaluation, with lesions appearing on his forehead and surrounding areas. The type of cancer was consistent with basal cell carcinoma, which, while malignant, is generally slow growing and highly treatable when detected early.
Post-surgery, Biden’s medical team reported that the lesions were completely excised with clear margins, and his recovery has been smooth without complications. Specialists highlighted the importance of regular skin checks, especially for individuals with a history of extensive sun exposure or previous skin cancers, underscoring that early intervention remains critical for positive outcomes.
Medical Perspective on Dual Cancer Diagnoses
Joe Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis, with a Gleason score of 9, indicates an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Such high Gleason scores reflect rapidly growing cancer cells that are more likely to spread and pose a greater challenge to treatment. Managing aggressive prostate cancer typically requires a multi-modality approach involving hormone therapy, radiation, surgery, or a combination to slow progression and improve survival chances.
Secondary cancers, such as skin cancer in Biden’s case, are not uncommon, especially in older adults and those with prior cancer histories. Skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma are often related to sun exposure and can occur independently or alongside other malignancies. The coexistence of multiple cancers highlights the importance of vigilant surveillance, timely diagnosis, and tailored treatment strategies to address each malignancy appropriately.
Effective care for patients with dual cancer diagnoses relies on multidisciplinary management, involving oncologists, dermatologists, surgeons, and other specialists to coordinate treatments while minimizing toxicity and preserving quality of life. This comprehensive approach provides the best chance for controlling disease and maintaining patient wellbeing amid complex medical challenges.
Impact on Biden’s Public Life and Presidency Legacy
Joe Biden’s aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis and subsequent skin cancer surgery have brought his health into the spotlight, influencing public perception in significant ways. While some supporters admire his openness and resilience in facing these health challenges, critics and political opponents have raised concerns about his physical capacity and transparency during his presidency. The intense scrutiny reflects broader discussions about age, fitness, and leadership endurance in high office.
Despite the challenges, Biden has taken a proactive approach to his treatment, openly communicating updates and emphasizing his determination to continue contributing to public life. His transparency has been seen by many as a strength, helping to maintain public trust and set an example for others facing serious health issues.
Biden’s cancer journey also draws attention to his lasting legacy in cancer research and advocacy. As Vice President and President, he championed the Cancer Moonshot initiative, a government-wide effort to accelerate cancer research and improve outcomes. His personal battle further highlights the importance of cancer awareness, early detection, and ongoing research—a cause he has passionately supported for over a decade.
Through his health struggles and public role, Biden reinforces the message of courage in the face of adversity, inspiring patients and advocates alike while continuing to shape the dialogue around cancer and healthcare policy.
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How Prevent Skin Cancer?
Preventing skin cancer involves a comprehensive approach to reduce exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, including seeking shade during peak hours, wearing protective clothing like long sleeves and hats, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, avoiding tanning beds, and conducting regular skin checks for early detection.
Protect Your Skin from UV Radiation
To protect your skin from harmful UV radiation, it’s important to take a comprehensive approach. Avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are at their strongest, by seeking shade whenever possible. Wearing protective clothing—such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses—provides an effective physical barrier against sun exposure. Additionally, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating, to maintain its protective effect.
Equally important is avoiding artificial sources of UV radiation. Tanning beds and sunlamps emit UV rays that are just as damaging as natural sunlight and significantly increase the risk of developing skin cancer. For safe skin, it’s best to avoid these devices altogether and opt for safer alternatives if tanning is desired.
How to Use Sunscreen for Maximum Protection?
Step 1: Apply Sunscreen Correctly
To ensure full coverage, apply about 1 ounce (30 ml) of sunscreen to cover your entire body, which is roughly the amount that fits in a shot glass. For the face, use about a teaspoon. It’s important to apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside to allow it to absorb fully. Make sure to rub the sunscreen thoroughly into all exposed skin areas, including often-missed spots like the ears, back of the neck, tops of the feet, and hands.
Step 2: Reapply Sunscreen
Reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating to maintain effective protection. Consistency is key, so make sunscreen application a regular part of your daily routine, even on cloudy days when UV rays can still penetrate the clouds.
Step 3: Additional Tips
Apply sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine, after moisturizer, to ensure it’s effective. For hard-to-reach areas like your back, use a spray sunscreen or ask someone to help apply it. Don’t forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that contains SPF.
You Can Also Read In Memory of Jimmy Carter and His Battle with Melanoma by OncoDaily
Written by Aharon Tsaturyan, MD, Lead of OncoDaily Volunteers, Editor at OncoDaily Intelligence Unit.
FAQ
What type of prostate cancer does Joe Biden have?
Joe Biden was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer characterized by a Gleason score of 9, indicating highly malignant and fast-growing tumor cells.
What does a Gleason score of 9 mean in prostate cancer?
A Gleason score ranges from 6 to 10, with higher scores indicating more aggressive cancers. A score of 9 means the cancer cells are very abnormal and likely to spread quickly, signaling an aggressive cancer.
Has Biden’s prostate cancer spread to other parts of his body?
Yes, his cancer had already metastasized to his bones at the time of diagnosis, making it Stage IV metastatic prostate cancer.
What treatments is Joe Biden undergoing for his aggressive prostate cancer?
Biden’s treatment plan includes hormone therapy (androgen deprivation therapy) to reduce testosterone, which fuels prostate cancer growth. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are also considered to control spread and symptoms.
What is Mohs surgery and why did Biden have it for skin cancer?
Mohs surgery is a microscopic, tissue-sparing technique for removing basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, the most common skin cancers. Biden underwent Mohs surgery to precisely remove skin cancer lesions on his head.
Is Biden’s skin cancer related to his prostate cancer?
No, the skin cancer is a separate malignancy unrelated to prostate cancer but reflects vigilance for secondary cancers common in older adults.
How serious is Joe Biden’s dual cancer diagnosis?
While both cancers are serious—especially the aggressive prostate cancer with bone metastases—Biden’s medical team is optimistic that ongoing treatments can effectively manage his conditions.
How might Biden’s cancer diagnoses affect his public life and presidency?
Public reaction has mixed concern and support, with debates on his health’s impact on public duties. Biden’s transparency and proactive treatment have helped maintain public trust.
What do experts say about Biden’s prognosis and treatment options?
Experts emphasize that even aggressive prostate cancer can be managed with advanced therapies, potentially allowing many years of quality life. Regular monitoring and multidisciplinary care are essential.
What is the Cancer Moonshot initiative championed by Biden?
Cancer Moonshot is a government-wide effort initiated under Biden to accelerate cancer research, improve treatment, and enhance prevention and detection.