Dr. Ezekiel Emmanuel, who was a Covid advisor under Biden and helped design the Affordable Care Act, shared on Monday that it’s likely former President Joe Biden has had cancer throughout much of his presidency. This follows confirmation from Biden’s office over the weekend that he was diagnosed with an “aggressive form” of prostate cancer, indicated by a high Gleason score of 9, and that it has metastasized to the bone.
During an appearance on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” Emmanuel stated that the progression of Biden’s cancer suggests he has probably been battling it “for more than a few years.” Host Joe Scarborough interjected to clarify that this isn’t mere speculation, emphasizing that if the cancer has spread to the bones, it indicates Biden likely had it as president.
Some medical experts expressed shock at the timing of Biden’s cancer diagnosis. Emmanuel remarked that it’s evident Biden had the cancer during his presidency, suggesting it likely began in 2021. Scarborough pointed out that while many men over 70 do choose to get tested for prostate cancer, most are not in the position of being president.
Emmanuel acknowledged that the decision to get tested often comes down to discussions between a doctor and patient, but noted that it’s a serious concern when it involves the leader of the country. He reflected on the fact that previous presidents—like Obama and Bush—had undergone these tests, leading to questions about Biden’s medical oversight. If he didn’t get tested and went unreported, it raises troubling issues about the transparency of medical information, especially given the past scrutiny of President Trump’s health disclosures.
Overall, Emmanuel concluded that while it’s conceivable to miss such a diagnosis, it seems highly unlikely, emphasizing the need for public awareness and communication regarding the health of a sitting president.
Biden’s office has yet to respond to inquiries about the situation.
