Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has extended heartfelt wishes to Joe Biden following the former US president’s announcement of an aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis. In a public message on Monday, Sir Keir expressed his concern and support: “I am very sorry to hear President Biden has prostate cancer. All the very best to Joe, his wife Jill, and their family, and wishing the President swift and successful treatment.”
Mr Biden, aged 82, was seen by medical professionals last week after reporting urinary symptoms. Diagnostic tests confirmed the presence of cancer, which had already spread to his bones. His office reported a Gleason score of nine — an indication of a highly aggressive form of the disease. However, the statement from his medical team offered a measure of hope, noting: “While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management.”
The President and his family are said to be reviewing treatment options in consultation with his doctors.
Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak echoed the sentiments expressed by Sir Keir, sharing his own words of support: “So sorry to hear the news that President Biden has prostate cancer. Too many men are struck by this disease. We must continue to raise awareness of the danger it poses. I wish him all the best on his treatment.”
Mr Biden has a medical history that includes the removal of a skin cancer lesion in 2023 and a pre-cancerous polyp from his bowel in 2021. Despite these challenges, he has remained a vocal champion of cancer research throughout his career. The death of his son Beau Biden from brain cancer in 2015 profoundly impacted him and led to the creation of the Cancer Moonshot initiative, which aims to halve cancer deaths in the US within 25 years.
In America, well-wishers from both sides of the political divide shared their support. Donald Trump, Mr Biden’s rival in the 2020 presidential race, stated: “We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.” Former vice president and 2024 Democratic candidate Kamala Harris also issued a message of encouragement: “Joe is a fighter — and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership.”
Mr Biden withdrew from the 2024 election race following a poor debate performance in June, paving the way for Ms Harris to lead the Democratic ticket.
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Global support poured in. Former President Barack Obama, who partnered with Mr Biden during his eight-year administration, shared his admiration for Mr Biden’s resilience: “Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer in all its forms than Joe. I am certain he will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace. We pray for a fast and full recovery.” Bill and Hillary Clinton also extended their thoughts: “Hillary and I are rooting for him and are keeping him, Jill, and the entire family in our thoughts.”
In the UK, health experts seized the moment to highlight the need for improved awareness and screening. Chiara De Biase, Director of Health Services at Prostate Cancer UK, noted: “This indiscriminate disease strikes dads, grandads, brothers, and uncles from every walk of life. We’re calling on the Government to overhaul outdated NHS guidelines so GPs can start conversations with men at higher risk and offer PSA blood tests from age 45.”
One in eight men in the UK will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Experts hope that increased visibility, spurred by Mr Biden’s announcement, will encourage more men to take preventive action.
As the world sends its best wishes, Mr Biden now begins a personal battle with a disease that he has long vowed to defeat for others.
