Biden Says Cancer Has Slowed His Pace Ahead of Memoir Launch

Former US President Joe Biden said on Sunday, November 8, that his prostate cancer diagnosis has reduced his pace. He explained that he will be able to make only a limited number of appearances to promote his forthcoming presidential memoir. Biden, who disclosed the diagnosis last year after departing the White House, posted on X that his physicians remain encouraged by his response to treatment, while acknowledging that his condition varies from day to day. In the post, Biden, 83, said that while he was writing the book he learned he had cancer, an illness familiar to many Americans and their families. He said the disease has not halted his work but at times slows him, meaning he will not be able to hold as many discussions about the book as he had hoped. He expressed hope that the book's text will communicate on its own. His memoir, "Promise Me, America," is scheduled for release on November 17. Biden said it covers his years as president, the challenges faced, the decisions he made and the reasons behind them, and who the nation is. He also said it addresses what the country stands for and America's role in the world, and that above all it reflects his faith in the American people and the country's experiment in self-governance and democracy. Last month, the 46th president issued a personal health message for Prostate Awareness Month, urging men to consult doctors for early detection. Biden wrote on social media that the cancer had already reached his bones by the time it was discovered. He noted that when prostate cancer is caught early, the five-year survival rate is close to 100 percent. He thanked his medical staff, saying their skill, dedication and compassion mean a great deal. He said radiation treatment last fall worked as intended and that he continues to do things he cares about, including finishing his memoir. Biden completed treatment for stage four cancer in October 2025. Hunter Biden described his father's condition as very debilitating. In August, Hunter Biden said the cancer had spread and metastasized into his father's bones and further, describing it as very painful and debilitating in many respects. Biden's memoir comes months after former first lady Jill Biden released her book, "A View from the East Wing," in June.