WASHINGTON (LOOTPRESS) — Former President Joe Biden is undergoing further medical evaluation after doctors discovered a small nodule on his prostate during a routine physical exam, a spokesperson confirmed Tuesday to CBS News.
“In a routine physical exam, a small nodule was found in the prostate which necessitated further evaluation,” the spokesperson said.
The development, first reported by The New York Times, raises the possibility—though not a certainty—of prostate cancer. Additional tests, including imaging and potentially a biopsy, will determine whether the nodule is cancerous or benign.
“Prostate cancer may present as a prostate nodule (a hard area on the prostate) or elevated PSA test and often results in ordering an MRI and prostate biopsy,” explained Dr. Herbert Lepor, a urologist at NYU Langone, in a statement to CBS News.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, second only to skin cancer, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 13 out of every 100 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, with age being the most significant risk factor.
“The older a man is, the greater the chance of getting prostate cancer,” the CDC states.
At 82, Biden remains one of the oldest living former U.S. presidents. He left office in January after becoming the oldest president in American history. His successor, Donald Trump, now holds the title of the oldest president at the time of taking office, having been sworn in at age 78.
The health update comes amid renewed public interest in Biden’s well-being, with a forthcoming book set to explore his health during his time in the White House. Despite stepping back from public life since leaving office, Biden and former First Lady Jill Biden recently appeared on The View, where they addressed speculation about his cognitive health.
“They are wrong,” Biden said, firmly denying any decline. “There’s nothing to sustain that.”
Further details regarding Biden’s prostate evaluation are expected as testing continues.
