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Joe Biden opens up about prostate cancer diagnosis, urges men to get screened
09th September, 2026 07:45 AM
Former US President Joe Biden has opened up about his ongoing battle with prostate cancer, urging men to take screening seriously and speak to their doctors about their health.
Biden made the remarks during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, reflecting on his diagnosis last spring and revealing that doctors discovered the cancer had already spread to his bones.
“This year it’s more personal for me,” Biden said on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, noting that more than 330,000 American men are expected to be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year.
Biden reveals cancer had spread to his bones
Biden said his diagnosis came after the disease had already progressed, highlighting the importance of detecting prostate cancer early.
“By the time we found it, it had already spread to my bones,” he stated.
The former president said early detection can significantly improve outcomes, noting that when prostate cancer is caught early, the five-year survival rate is close to 100 per cent.
He encouraged men not to avoid conversations about screening, particularly those who may have a higher risk of developing the disease.
“So have the conversation with your doctor. Don’t put it off,” Biden said.
Biden highlights higher risk among Black men
Biden also drew attention to racial disparities in prostate cancer, particularly the higher risk faced by Black men.
“If you’re a Black man, start it at 45 or earlier. You are nearly 70% more likely to get this disease and 2 to 4 times more likely to die from it,” he said.
He also urged men with a family history of prostate cancer to speak with their doctors earlier.
“If your father or your brother had prostate cancer, start the conversation at 45, and even earlier if more than one of them did,” Biden stated.
His message comes as part of efforts to encourage greater awareness around prostate cancer and the importance of screening.
Biden gives update on treatment
Biden said he remains grateful to the medical professionals who have been involved in his treatment and care.
“I am deeply grateful to the doctors, nurses and other medical professionals who helped to control my cancer and who continue to take such good care of me,” he said.
He revealed that his radiation treatment last fall had worked as intended and said he continues to pursue activities that are important to him, including finishing his memoir.
Biden ended his message by encouraging men to ask difficult questions about their health.
“Do it for yourself, and do it for the people who love you,” he said, adding: “And no matter what, keep the faith. God bless you.”
