Hunter Biden Says Father's Cancer Treatment Taxing
Hunter Biden described the toll of metastatic prostate cancer treatment on former President Joe Biden, who is 83.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Cancer
Hunter Biden said treatment for his father's metastatic prostate cancer is incredibly taxing on his body. Joe Biden, 83, confirmed on September 8 that his radiation therapy was successful.
Why it matters
Metastatic prostate cancer that has spread to the bones is a serious diagnosis, and the reported treatment burden highlights the physical toll on older patients. Prostate cancer is expected to be diagnosed in about 330,000 American men this year.
The figures cited are family and public statements rather than clinical trial results, with about 330,000 American men expected to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis this year. Details on the prognosis and hormone therapy duration have not been disclosed.
The players
Hunter Biden
Son of Joe Biden and a public figure who has spoken publicly about his father's health and treatment.
Joe Biden
Former President of the United States who was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer in 2025.
Jill Biden
Former First Lady who said she informed White House doctors about her husband's frequent nighttime urination.
The details
Joe Biden was diagnosed with prostate cancer in May 2025, and in August Hunter Biden revealed it had spread to his bones. The cancer has been treated with radiation and hormone therapy, and Joe Biden confirmed on September 8 that his radiation was successful.
Timeline
May 2025: Joe Biden diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer.
August: Hunter Biden revealed the cancer had spread to Joe Biden's bones.
September 8: Joe Biden announced radiation therapy success on X.
Big Picture
Joe Biden's May 2025 diagnosis and the August disclosure that the cancer had reached his bones form the baseline for these updates. The September 8 radiation success and family comments on treatment burden extend that public timeline.
Men over 50, and those with a family history of prostate cancer, may wish to discuss screening timing with their doctors. Treatment for metastatic disease often involves hormone therapy and radiation, which can carry significant side effects for daily routines.
The takeaway
Metastatic prostate cancer treatment can be physically demanding, and patients should discuss side effects and daily-life adjustments openly with their care teams. Early conversations with a doctor about symptoms like frequent urination can help guide next steps.
Further reading
Explore more in Cancer coverage for context on prostate cancer diagnoses and treatment.
