Washington:

Joe Biden had not been diagnosed with prostate cancer until last week, despite having undergone blood tests for the condition 11 years ago, according to a spokesperson for the former president.

This clarification follows remarks from Biden’s successor, President Donald Trump, who expressed surprise that Biden hadn’t previously mentioned having cancer and suggested there might be a cover-up.

On Sunday, Biden’s office revealed that the 82-year-old was diagnosed with an aggressive type of prostate cancer shortly after a nodule was identified in his gland.

“President Biden’s last PSA test was in 2014,” the spokesperson stated.

“He had never been diagnosed with prostate cancer prior to Friday.”

Prostate cancer is the most prevalent type among men and can often be detected early through blood tests that check for prostate-specific antigens (PSA).

Trump has a history of questioning the health and cognitive abilities of his political opponents.

He and his supporters have raised concerns about when Biden and his medical team became aware of the cancer, given the extensive medical evaluations associated with the U.S. presidency.

Nonetheless, routine PSA screenings for those over 70 are not universally advised.

The U.S. Task Force on Preventive Services has indicated that the risks of false positives and complications from biopsies and treatments may outweigh the benefits.

At the time of the 2014 test, Biden would have been between 71 and 72 years old.

A medical expert noted that, even with advanced medical care, it’s possible for the diagnosis of advanced cancer to be delayed.

Biden’s office did not disclose whether he had specifically undergone the prostate test.

These health concerns were highlighted ahead of the release of a book that critiques his recent reelection campaign and discusses his physical health decline in recent weeks.

The former president expressed gratitude for the overwhelming “love and support” he’s received since his cancer diagnosis.