Former President Joe Biden's prostate cancer has advanced significantly, spreading to his bones and causing considerable pain and debilitation, according to an update provided by his son, Hunter Biden, during an interview with the BBC on Friday. The revelation offers a more detailed and sobering picture of the 83-year-old former president's health condition.
"The cancer has spread, metastasized into his bones and further. It’s very painful and it’s very debilitating in many respects." — Hunter Biden, Son of former President Joe Biden
Hunter Biden described the extent of his father's illness, stating, "The cancer has spread, metastasized into his bones and further." He further elaborated on the impact, noting, "It’s very painful and it’s very debilitating in many respects." This latest information follows former President Biden's public announcement in May 2025 that he had been diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer, a diagnosis that came months after his departure from the White House.
The diagnosis of an aggressive form of prostate cancer, which had already metastasized to his bones, was made public by Biden's office in May of the previous year. This health challenge emerged after a turbulent end to his political career, marked by his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race. Concerns about his age and ability to serve another term had gained widespread attention following his performance in the 2024 presidential debate, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Despite the ongoing battle with advanced cancer, former President Biden has maintained a degree of public visibility. In late June, he was seen alongside Maryland Democrats at the party's "Fight Back and Win" gala near Baltimore. Earlier that same month, he attended the opening of the new Obama library in Chicago, demonstrating a continued commitment to public and political engagements. Hunter Biden affirmed his father's determination, stating, "He’s still doing his thing," and adding, "He so believes in this country."
However, Hunter Biden also conveyed the emotional toll of witnessing his father's struggle. "It’s really sad to watch," he commented during the interview. He also expressed a wish for his father to be more open about his difficulties, remarking, "The only thing that I’d say about my dad, about his health right now, is I wish he would complain more, because it’s not good." These comments highlight the personal challenge faced by the Biden family amidst the former president's public resolve.
Beyond his public appearances, former President Biden is also engaged in writing a memoir titled "Promise Me, America," which is anticipated for release after the 2026 midterm elections. This project signifies his ongoing engagement with public discourse and his desire to reflect on his experiences and beliefs. Meanwhile, Hunter Biden himself has adopted a more prominent public role in recent months, frequently posting on X (formerly Twitter) and publicly defending his father's record during his time in office.
The medical term "metastasis" indicates that cancer cells have spread from their original site to other parts of the body, forming new tumors. When prostate cancer metastasizes to the bones, it can lead to significant pain, bone fractures, and other complications, often requiring more intensive and palliative care. The progression described by Hunter Biden suggests a worsening of these symptoms and the overall condition.
This update on former President Biden's health underscores the profound challenges associated with advanced cancer, even for individuals who have held the nation's highest office. It brings into focus the personal struggles that often remain private for public figures, while also highlighting the resilience and determination that can be maintained in the face of severe illness. The ongoing public appearances and literary endeavors by the former president reflect a continued engagement with the world despite his debilitating condition.
