In 1988, then-Senator Joe Biden collapsed from a severe headache. Doctors found a ruptured brain aneurysm, requiring emergency surgery. Soon after, a second aneurysm and pulmonary embolism followed, putting his life at risk. “Doctors gave him less than a 50 percent chance of survival,” he later revealed.

Over the years, Biden faced multiple health setbacks: colon polyps, prostate enlargement, gallbladder removal, atrial fibrillation, and sleep apnea. In 2021, he had a precancerous colon polyp removed. In 2023, a routine checkup revealed skin cancer, which was treated successfully.

Biden tested positive for COVID twice while in office but recovered both times. However, a shaky 2024 debate performance raised questions about his cognitive fitness. Days later, he withdrew from the presidential race.

In May 2025, Biden was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer that had spread to his bones — a serious and often incurable condition. Though treatment plans remain private, the diagnosis marked a grave chapter in his long health journey.

Biden’s resilience has defined his public life. His story is one of survival, loss, and now, one final fight.