Former US president Joe Biden was diagnosed with an “aggressive form” of prostate cancer, his office announced on Sunday.

The cancer, his office confirmed, has spread to his bones, also known as metastasized.

“Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms. On Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone,” the statement said.

“While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management,” the statement continued.

The Biden family “is reviewing treatment options with his physicians,” the statement said.

Pope Francis and U.S. President Joe Biden meet as they attend the G7 summit, in Savelletri, Italy June 14, 2024. (credit: Vatican Media/­Handout via REUTERS)
Pope Francis and U.S. President Joe Biden meet as they attend the G7 summit, in Savelletri, Italy June 14, 2024. (credit: Vatican Media/­Handout via REUTERS)
Following the announcement, the former president wrote to X/Twitter, "Cancer touches us all. Like so many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places. Thank you for lifting us up with love and support."

Israeli President Isaac Herzog wrote on X/Twitter to his "dear friend Joe," sending "love from Israel," adding that "we pray for your full and fast recovery."

US politicians react to cancer diagnosis

Former vice president Kamala Harris shared on X/Twitter that she and her husband, Doug Emhoff, were saddened to hear of Biden's diagnosis. 

"We are keeping him, Dr. Biden, and their entire family in our hearts and prayers during this time. Joe is a fighter — and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership. We are hopeful for a full and speedy recovery," she posted. 

Former president Barack Obama wrote on X that he and the former first lady, Michelle, were praying for a fast and full recovery. "Michelle and I are thinking of the entire Biden family. Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer in all its forms than Joe, and I am certain he will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace," he shared.

US President Donald Trump also reacted to the news in a post on Truth Social. "Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis," Trump wrote. 

He added, "We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery."

Cancer discovered during a routine physical examination

A small nodule was found last week during a routine physical examination, a spokesperson told ABC News.

"In a routine physical exam, a small nodule was found in the prostate, which necessitated further evaluation," the spokesperson said.

This is not the first time that Biden has battled against cancer. While still president, Biden had a cancerous lesion removed from his chest and, before taking office, he had several non-melanoma skin cancers removed with Mohs surgery.