In a recent confirmation to CBS News, a spokeswoman stated that former President Joe Biden has undergone a medical procedure to remove skin cancer. The procedure performed was Mohs surgery, a specialized technique used primarily to treat certain types of skin cancer.
Mohs surgery is a meticulous and precise process where thin layers of skin are incrementally removed and examined until only cancer-free tissues are left. This method is highly valued for its ability to completely eliminate cancer cells while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. It was developed by Dr. Frederic Mohs in the 1930s and has since been refined to become one of the gold-standard treatments for basal and squamous cell carcinomas, the two most common types of skin cancer.
Details regarding when and where Mr. Biden had the surgery were not extensively disclosed. However, there were recent public sightings and subsequent media reports, including photographs and video clips from sources like Inside Edition and the New York Post, where Mr. Biden appeared with a noticeable mark on the right side of his head, likely related to this surgical procedure.
This is not Mr. Biden’s first encounter with skin cancer. Back in 2023, during a routine physical examination, doctors discovered a small lesion on his chest. The lesion was removed, and further analysis confirmed it was basal cell carcinoma. The White House physician at the time declared the surgical removal a success, stating that all cancerous tissue had been effectively eliminated.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most prevalent form of skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation and other medical sources, it arises from abnormal, uncontrolled growths or lesions within the skin’s basal cells—cells that line the deepest layer of the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin). This type of cancer is known for its slow growth and the slight likelihood of spreading to other parts of the body (metastasis). However, if left untreated, basal cell carcinomas can become quite destructive, particularly in the area surrounding the nose, ears, and other areas of the face.
Separately, earlier this same year, it was revealed that Mr. Biden had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that had metastasized to his bones. This diagnosis highlights a series of health challenges the former president faces amidst his continued public service and political involvement.
Prostate cancer, another common type of cancer among men, especially those over the age of 65, can vary widely in how aggressive it is and the rate at which it spreads. Treatments vary depending on the severity and spread of the disease and can range from monitoring and active surveillance to surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
The benefits of Mohs surgery specifically in treating skin cancers like those Mr. Biden had included its high success rate in completely removing cancer cells, minimizing the chance of recurrence. The Mayo Clinic describes Mohs surgery as preferable for treating cancers that have a high risk of recurrence, cancers that are located in areas where preserving cosmetic appearance and function are important, and cancers that have borders that are difficult to define.
Moreover, Mohs surgery allows pathologists and surgeons to verify that all cancer cells have been removed at the time of the surgery, which increases the likelihood of a cure and reduces the need for additional treatments or surgeries.
The role of frequent checks and early detection through routine medical examinations, such as the one that led to the detection and treatment of Mr. Biden’s skin lesions, cannot be overstressed. These examinations are crucial for catching diseases early when they are most treatable.
Prominent figures like Joe Biden openly sharing their medical conditions and treatment choices play an important educational role. They help to demystify diseases and treatments, making them less daunting for the general public. This transparency can encourage more people to undertake regular medical check-ups, which is essential for catching diseases like cancer in their most treatable stages.
As for Mr. Biden, despite these health scares, he continues to participate actively in public engagements and political activities, demonstrating resilience and commitment to his public responsibilities. His medical team will likely continue to monitor his health closely, given his history of cancer and his public profile.
This coverage provides a snapshot not only into the personal health struggles of a public figure but also casts light onto broader issues of health, medicine, and public awareness about common yet serious health concerns like cancer.
