More health problems for the 46th U.S. President
Former President Joe Biden, now 83, is primarily dealing with advanced prostate cancer that has metastasized further, according to the most recent public updates from his family. This remains the dominant health issue shaping his post-presidency life as of early August 2026.
Diagnosis and Initial Details
Biden publicly revealed the diagnosis in May 2025, roughly four months after leaving the White House. Doctors identified an aggressive form of prostate adenocarcinoma with a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5, the highest severity category). The cancer was already Stage 4 and had spread to his bones at the time of discovery. It followed evaluation for urinary symptoms and a prostate nodule.
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His office noted at the time that the cancer appeared hormone-sensitive, which can allow for management even if it is not considered curable. Experts have indicated that men with this type of metastatic prostate cancer can often live for several years with treatment, though outcomes vary.
Treatment and Progression
Biden has undergone radiation therapy (including a completed course at a Philadelphia facility in fall 2025) and hormone therapy. He has also had procedures to remove skin cancer lesions.
In July 2026, while announcing plans for a memoir, Biden described his treatment as going “really well.” However, more recent comments from his son Hunter Biden indicate further progression. In a BBC interview that aired around August 8, 2026, Hunter stated: “The cancer has spread, metastasized into his bones and further. It’s very painful and it’s very debilitating in many respects.” He added that it is “really sad to watch” and that he wishes his father would complain more “because it’s not good.”
Hunter noted that despite the pain and debilitation, his father continues some public engagement and speaking on issues important to him.
Former First Lady Jill Biden has previously said her husband will live with Stage 4 cancer for the rest of his life. In mid-2026 interviews, she described him as keeping a schedule but having “slowed down,” attributing this to the cancer, his age, and medications. The combination has made daily life more difficult.
Impact on Daily Life
Reporting from July 2026 described Biden’s post-White House world as having narrowed. He spends more time within a smaller circle of family, longtime aides, and friends while managing treatment. Sources close to him indicated the treatments appear to help control the disease but have left him visibly frail. Public appearances and activities are more limited than those of many recent former presidents.
Biden continues occasional speaking engagements and is preparing a memoir titled Promise Me, America, expected after the 2026 midterms.
Broader Context
Age-related concerns and questions about cognitive sharpness were prominent during Biden’s presidency and 2024 campaign, contributing to his decision to withdraw from the race. Jill Biden has acknowledged that he was “slowing down” in office due to the demands of the job and aging but has denied cognitive decline. Historical medical disclosures during his presidency noted conditions common in older adults, such as atrial fibrillation, sleep apnea (managed with CPAP), and peripheral neuropathy, along with residual effects from earlier injuries.
No major new independent medical reports beyond family statements have detailed additional acute conditions as of the latest available updates. The progressive metastatic prostate cancer and the physical toll of its treatment are the central, publicly confirmed health challenges at present.
Health information for public figures evolves with new statements or medical disclosures. The details above reflect reporting from major outlets based on family comments and official announcements through early August 2026.
