Joe Biden Begins Radiation Treatment for Prostate Cancer, Reports BBC News Chinese

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• • Author, Jaroslav Lukiv
  • Role,

• October 12, 2025

Former US President Joe Biden is currently undergoing radiation therapy to fight prostate cancer (prostate cancer). His spokesman said Biden is also receiving hormonal therapy, but did not disclose further details.

NBC quoted sources as saying that Biden’s radiation treatment is expected to last five weeks, marking a new stage in his cancer treatment.

In May, Biden’s office announced that he had a more aggressive form of prostate cancer that had spread to his bones. The diagnosis was determined after Biden developed symptoms of abnormal urination and doctors found a small lump in his prostate and conducted further examinations.

Biden’s office noted at the time that his cancer was rated a Gleason score of 9 (category 5) and had metastasized to his bones. According to Cancer Research UK, a Gleason score of 9 means the cancer cells are “high-grade” and may spread quickly.

Despite being a more aggressive form of the disease, Biden’s cancer responded to hormonal treatments, meaning the disease can still be effectively controlled.

People close to Biden revealed to BBC US news partner CBS that Biden is currently in good condition and responding positively to treatment. Another source said radiation treatment began weeks ago in Philadelphia.

Biden became the oldest president in U.S. history when he left office in January. His health has repeatedly attracted attention during his term, and he finally announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential election late in his re-election campaign.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris ran for the Democratic Party and ultimately lost to current President Donald Trump.

Biden has long been committed to promoting cancer research. In 2022, he and his wife, Jill Biden, relaunched the “Cancer Moonshot” with the goal of preventing more than 4 million people from dying from cancer by 2047.

Biden’s eldest son, Beau Biden, died of brain cancer in 2015. Biden himself also received treatment for skin cancer in 2023 and 2025.

In recent months, he has gradually receded from public view. In May this year, Biden accepted an exclusive interview with the BBC, which was his first public interview since leaving office. He admitted that the decision to withdraw from the 2024 election was “quite difficult.”

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, after skin cancer. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that approximately 13 out of every 100 men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime, with age being the main risk factor.

What are the potential implications of President Biden receiving cancer treatment while in office?

Understanding the Diagnosis: Prostate Cancer & Biden’s Health

Recent reports from BBC News Chinese confirm that U.S. President Joe Biden has commenced radiation treatment for prostate cancer. This news follows earlier disclosures regarding the detection of cancerous cells during a routine medical examination. Prostate cancer is a prevalent malignancy affecting men, particularly those over 50. Early detection and treatment are crucial for positive outcomes. The specific type of prostate cancer Biden has been diagnosed with hasn’t been fully detailed, but the initiation of radiation therapy indicates a focused approach to treatment.

Key Terms: Prostate Cancer, Joe Biden, Radiation Therapy, BBC News Chinese, Cancer Treatment, Men’s Health, oncology

Details of the Treatment Plan

The White House has stated that Biden’s treatment schedule is designed to minimize disruption to his presidential duties. Radiation therapy, in this case, is likely being administered using modern techniques aimed at precisely targeting the cancerous cells while sparing healthy tissue.

Here’s a breakdown of common radiation therapy methods:

* External beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Delivers radiation from a machine outside the body. This is a common approach for prostate cancer.

* Brachytherapy: Involves implanting radioactive seeds directly into the prostate gland.

* Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT): A highly focused form of EBRT delivered in fewer, larger doses.

The duration of biden’s treatment and the specific method being employed haven’t been publicly disclosed. However,the White House has emphasized his continued ability to fulfill his responsibilities throughout the process. Prostate cancer treatment options are continually evolving, offering patients increasingly effective and less invasive solutions.

BBC News Chinese Coverage & Global Impact

BBC News Chinese was among the first major international news outlets to report extensively on Biden’s treatment.Thier coverage provides a valuable outlook for a global audience, particularly within Chinese-speaking communities.The reporting highlights the importance of regular health screenings and the advancements in cancer care.

The news has sparked discussions about presidential health clarity and the impact of a leader’s medical condition on global affairs. Political implications of Biden’s health are being analyzed by commentators worldwide.

prostate Cancer: symptoms, Risk Factors & Prevention

Understanding the risk factors and potential symptoms of prostate cancer is vital for early detection.

Risk Factors:

* Age: Risk increases significantly after age 50.

* Family History: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer increases your risk.

* Race: African American men have a higher risk of developing and dying from prostate cancer.

* Diet: A diet high in red meat and high-fat dairy products may increase risk.

Symptoms (often subtle in early stages):

* Frequent urination, especially at night

* Weak or interrupted urine flow

* Difficulty starting or stopping urination

* Painful urination or ejaculation

* Blood in urine or semen

Prevention & Early Detection:

* Regular Check-ups: Discuss prostate cancer screening with your doctor, including the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test and digital rectal exam (DRE).

* Healthy Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

* Maintain a Healthy weight: obesity is linked to increased risk.

* Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can contribute to overall health and potentially reduce cancer risk. Prostate cancer screening guidelines are regularly updated, so staying informed is crucial.

The Role of radiation Therapy in Prostate Cancer Treatment

Radiation therapy is a cornerstone of prostate cancer treatment, offering a non-surgical option for many patients. It works by using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.

Benefits of Radiation Therapy:

* Non-Invasive: Doesn’t require surgical incisions.

* Effective: Can effectively control or eliminate cancer cells.

* Outpatient Procedure: Often administered on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to maintain their daily routines.

Potential Side Effects:

* Fatigue

* Urinary problems

* Bowel problems

* Erectile dysfunction

Modern radiation techniques are designed to minimize these side effects. Advances in radiation oncology are continually improving treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients.

Historical Precedents: Presidents & Health Concerns

Throughout U.S. history,presidential health has frequently enough been a matter of public interest. Several presidents have faced notable health challenges while in office.

* Franklin D. Roosevelt: Managed polio throughout his presidency.

* Dwight D. Eisenhower: Suffered a heart attack in 1955 and underwent surgery.

* John F.Kennedy: Concealed the extent of his Addison’s disease and back pain.

The level of transparency regarding presidential health has varied over time. biden’s management has opted for a relatively open approach, providing updates on his condition while respecting his privacy. Presidential health history provides context for current events.