One surprising voice, and the wave of disbelief it sparked, stood out as the former US president received support from people of all political persuasions.

Joe Biden’s staff confirmed his prostate cancer diagnosis in a public announcement on May 18, 2025, which sparked a lot of online controversy. According to the statement, Biden had been evaluated by a physician following complaints related to his urine.

Following the discovery of a prostate lump, additional testing identified an aggressive form of prostate cancer with metastases to the bone and a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5).

The malignancy is hormone-sensitive, allowing for efficient medical therapy despite the gravity of the diagnosis. Biden and his family are now discussing treatment options with his doctors, the statement continued.

The following day, May 19, President Donald Trump addressed the news on his Truth Social platform. In the post, he stated, “Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis. We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery.”

Trump’s statement immediately went viral on social media, with many followers expressing astonishment and scepticism at the tone of his remarks.

On Instagram, one person wrote, “He didn’t write that.” Another commented, “Trump didn’t write this. PERIOD!” Echoing the sentiment, a commenter asked, “Where is Trump? And what did you do with him?”

Doubt over the authenticity of the message continued in similar remarks. “Who even believe this message [sic]?” one person questioned, while another expressed, “There’s no way he wrote that.”

Some were taken aback by the unexpected nature of the statement. “I’m shocked that he said anything!” one person remarked. Another reaction read, “Wow impressive no nasty remarks! I’m sure he didn’t write it.”

National leaders and medical professionals have responded and offered their thoughts since Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis was announced.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris showed her support on Instagram on May 19.

She penned, “Doug and I are saddened to learn of President Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis. We are keeping him, Dr. Biden, and their entire family in our hearts and prayers during this time. Joe is a fighter — and I know he will face this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life and leadership. We are hopeful for a full and speedy recovery.”

In his remarks on X, former President Barack Obama also acknowledged Biden’s prior support for cancer research.

He mentioned, “Michelle and I are thinking of the entire Biden family. Nobody has done more to find breakthrough treatments for cancer in all its forms than Joe, and I am certain he will fight this challenge with his trademark resolve and grace. We pray for a fast and full recovery.”

Experts in medicine have also offered their opinions on the diagnosis. In a BBC interview, Dr. William Dahut, the American Cancer Society’s Chief Scientific Officer, offered his thoughts on the illness.

He described Biden’s cancer as aggressive and noted the seriousness of its spread. “In general, if cancer has spread to the bones, we don’t think it is considered a curable cancer,” he said.

But many people respond well to treatment, Dr. Dahut continued, adding, “People can live many years with the diagnosis.” He clarified that hormone treatments are probably going to be employed to lessen symptoms and delay the disease’s progression.

Biden has previously dealt with cancer. A skin lesion that was excised from his chest during a routine physical examination turned out to be basal cell carcinoma, according to an NBC News article dated March 2023.

Dr. Kevin O’Connor, the White House doctor at the time, attested that no additional treatment was required because all of the malignant tissue had been safely removed.

Joe Biden is still consulting with his doctors and going over the next stages for his therapy as the responses keep coming in. The management of his illness and the public support from both citizens and officials are now the main topics of discussion.