President Joe Biden has begun a course of radiation therapy to treat recently diagnosed prostate cancer, White House officials confirmed Friday morning. The 81-year-old commander-in-chief will undergo eight weeks of targeted treatment while maintaining his regular presidential duties.
“The President’s medical team detected the cancer during his annual physical last month,” said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre during this morning’s press briefing. “It was caught early, and doctors describe it as highly treatable with an excellent prognosis.” The treatments will take place at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Biden addressed the diagnosis in a written statement, emphasizing his intention to continue fulfilling his presidential responsibilities. “Millions of Americans receive this diagnosis each year,” the President noted. “Like them, I’m approaching this with determination and gratitude for our extraordinary medical professionals.”
According to Dr. Kevin O’Connor, the President’s physician, Biden’s cancer is Stage 1 and localized. Treatment will involve daily radiation sessions lasting approximately 20 minutes each. Medical experts note that modern radiation protocols for prostate cancer typically produce minimal side effects, with fatigue being the most common concern.
“The President’s general health remains robust for a man of his age,” Dr. O’Connor stated in a detailed medical summary released to the public. “His cardiovascular function and cognitive abilities show no concerning changes from previous assessments.”
Prostate cancer affects roughly one in eight American men during their lifetime, with the American Cancer Society estimating about 288,300 new cases in 2023. When detected early, as in Biden’s case, the five-year survival rate exceeds 99%, according to the National Cancer Institute.
The diagnosis comes at a complex moment for Biden’s administration. His team has been navigating challenging diplomatic situations in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, while domestically facing economic concerns and immigration policy debates. Senior administration officials insist the President’s treatment schedule will not disrupt governance.
“I’ve spoken with the President several times today, and his focus remains entirely on serving the American people,” Vice President Kamala Harris told reporters after a scheduled event in Pittsburgh. “His resilience is remarkable, and the entire administration stands ready to ensure continuity of operations.”
Republican leaders have generally responded with expressions of support. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said, “Cancer doesn’t care about political affiliation. The Senate Republicans join me in wishing President Biden a swift and complete recovery.”
Medical experts independent of the White House medical unit have expressed optimism about Biden’s prognosis. Dr. Elizabeth Hartman, chief of oncology at Georgetown University Hospital, explained, “Modern radiation therapy for early-stage prostate cancer is highly effective with minimal disruption to daily activities for most patients.”
The White House has committed to providing regular updates on the President’s condition. Chief of Staff Jeff Zients has implemented protocols to ensure seamless operation of executive functions, including adjustments to Biden’s travel schedule during the treatment period.
This isn’t Biden’s first encounter with significant health challenges. He underwent surgery for two brain aneurysms in 1988 and has previously had non-melanoma skin cancers removed. His personal history with cancer extends beyond his own health – his son Beau Biden died of brain cancer in 2015, inspiring the President’s Cancer Moonshot initiative.
Health experts emphasize the importance of regular screenings, particularly for men over 50. The American Urological Association recommends discussions about prostate cancer screening beginning at age 55 for men of average risk.
“The President’s situation highlights the value of routine medical checkups,” noted Dr. William Richards of the American Cancer Society. “Early detection remains our most powerful tool against prostate cancer.”
Financial markets showed little reaction to the news, with analysts suggesting investor confidence that the diagnosis would not significantly impact administration policy or leadership continuity.
As Biden begins his treatment journey, he joins more than 3.5 million American men living with prostate cancer. His public disclosure aims to raise awareness about the disease and encourage preventative screenings.
“I’ve faced challenges before, and I’ll face this one with the same resolve,” Biden concluded in his statement. “In the meantime, there’s work to be done for the American people.”
