Jill Biden Discusses Joe Biden’s Cancer Diagnosis
Former First Lady Dr. Jill Biden provided an update about former President Joe Biden’s health, revealing on Saturday that at 83 years old, he will live with cancer for the rest of his life. While he’s still managing a busy schedule, she noted that he’s experiencing some slowdown.
In a conversation with Ana Navarro, a political commentator and co-host of “The View,” Biden discussed her new memoir, “A View from the East Wing.” She recounted how, during her husband’s presidency, he would get up multiple times each night to use the bathroom, expecting someone to check on him afterward.
After leaving the White House in 2025, this issue continued. She urged him to see a urologist, who upon examination, mentioned there was “something there.” Following a CAT scan, it was revealed that Joe had prostate cancer, a diagnosis she was not prepared for.
“I never thought it would be prostate cancer. I just never imagined it,” she admitted.
Biden explained that while some cases of prostate cancer are “curable,” Joe’s situation is more serious—stage 4 cancer that has spread to his bones. Because of this, he requires special medication and will have to contend with cancer for the rest of his days.
He also went through radiation therapy, traveling from Delaware to Philadelphia for five weeks, and she expressed that this experience takes a toll on him.
“It’s a lot to manage,” she said. Despite his commitments, including a Democratic event in South Dakota on Friday and attending a friend’s wedding on Saturday, she noted that he’s slowed down. “He’s 83 and dealing with stage 4 cancer, and that combo is making life a bit tougher lately.”
Jill Biden reflected on her role, saying it’s challenging being the caretaker, though her husband prefers not to label her that way. She’s the one ensuring he takes his medications, communicates with doctors, manages his schedule, and keeps an eye on his diet.
In May 2025, Joe Biden publicly shared his cancer diagnosis. Earlier this week, Jill reassured viewers on the “Today” show that he’s doing okay. “He’s traveling on Amtrak and recently attended a Veterans Memorial Ceremony at the Delaware Memorial Bridge. Yes, he’s active, but he has stage 4 cancer.”
During her conversation with Navarro, they also touched on other topics from her book, such as Joe’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 campaign after a difficult debate.
While at home in Delaware, he expressed feelings of being trapped, stating, “I have no other choice.” She mentioned he was hurt by some Democrats urging him to step aside. Despite this, he reconciled with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who had led calls for him to withdraw, at a recent funeral.
Jill also noted a perceived “double standard” regarding discussions about her husband’s age and mental sharpness compared to that of President Donald Trump, who turns 80 soon. She commented on the kind of leadership she hopes to see after Trump, emphasizing integrity, trustworthiness, and empathy without naming any candidates.
“That’s the American way. That’s who we are,” she concluded.
