Joe Biden makes announcement on Radiation Therapy for Aggressive Prostate Cancer

Former President Joe Biden has completed a weeks-long course of radiation therapy for an aggressive form of prostate cancer.

According to his office, the 82-year-old concluded treatment at Penn Medicine Radiation Oncology in Philadelphia. His team first disclosed on October 11 that Biden had been receiving therapy for prostate cancer that had metastasized to his bones.

“He rang the bell today,” a spokeswoman told CBS News, marking the end of his radiation phase, though additional medical care is expected.

Why It Matters

Biden’s health continues to draw national attention, especially following his presidency as the oldest person to serve in the role. The update comes amid ongoing discussions about the effects of aging and illness on political leadership.

After stepping down from the 2024 presidential race in July due to health and fitness concerns, Biden left office in January. His successor, Donald Trump—now 79—became the oldest person ever elected president in November 2024, sparking similar public interest in his well-being.

What We Know

Earlier this month, Biden began a five-week course of radiation therapy combined with hormone treatment, part of a broader plan to manage his cancer. His diagnosis of aggressive, metastatic prostate cancer was made public in May 2025 after he sought care for urinary symptoms.

A spokesperson told NBC News that Biden’s hormone therapy has been ongoing since his diagnosis, with the radiation marking a new stage in his treatment.

In September, Biden underwent Mohs surgery to remove skin cancer lesions, a procedure his doctors said was fully successful. A similar minor procedure had been performed in 2023 following a routine physical.

Despite his diagnosis, Biden has remained relatively active in public life. His most recent appearance was in April at the ACRD conference in Chicago.

Understanding His Diagnosis

Doctors measure the severity of prostate cancer using the Gleason score, which ranges from 6 to 10. Biden’s score of 9 classifies his condition among the most aggressive types.