Kathmandu— Former United States President Joe Biden is battling an advanced stage of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones, his son Hunter Biden revealed in an interview with BBC Newsnight aired Saturday. The diagnosis was made public in May 2025, shortly after Biden left office following Donald Trump’s election victory over Kamala Harris. While initial reports indicated the cancer was hormone-sensitive and potentially treatable, recent developments have shown a worsening of his condition, causing significant pain and debilitation.

Worsening Condition Confirmed

Hunter Biden described the news as “tough” to hear, stating that the cancer had spread beyond its initial location. "Cancer has spread, metastasized into his bones and further," he said in the BBC interview. “It’s very painful and it’s very debilitating, in many respects.” His mother, Jill Biden, recently shared similar concerns, telling SiriusXM's Let's Talk Off Camera With Kelly Ripa podcast that the former president would “forever live with cancer” due to the metastasis.

Health Concerns During 2024 Campaign

Joe Biden’s physical and mental health were key issues during his unsuccessful 2024 reelection campaign. Opponents, and even some allies, questioned his fitness for a second term, citing instances of frailty at public appearances and difficulty articulating thoughts during speeches and interviews. He ultimately withdrew from the race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor, following a particularly challenging televised debate with Donald Trump.

Family History of Cancer

The current diagnosis adds to a history of cancer within the Biden family. Joe Biden’s son, Beau, died in 2015 at age 46 after battling brain cancer. This prior loss likely contributes to the emotional weight surrounding the former president's present health struggles.

Recent Legal Issues and Presidential Pardon

Hunter Biden has been actively working to rehabilitate his public image following a series of personal scandals that also impacted his father’s reputation. Shortly before leaving office, Joe Biden issued a pardon to Hunter for any federal offenses committed between January 1, 2014, and December 1, 2024. The younger Biden had previously been convicted on three federal gun charges and pleaded guilty to nine federal tax charges, with the president arguing that his son was politically targeted. Hunter acknowledged to the BBC that the pardon was “not good” for his father’s legacy.

Joe Biden is currently undergoing treatment for the advanced cancer, but will continue to live with the disease indefinitely, according to his wife Jill.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.