Rhiannon Ingle
Donald Trump has issued his response after former US president Joe Biden announced the news that he has been diagnosed with 'aggressive' prostate cancer.
The news was shared yesterday (18 May) in a statement from Biden's office which confirmed that, on Friday (16 May), the 82-year-old Democrat was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterised by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone.
"While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management," the statement continues.
"The president and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians."
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According to Cancer Research UK, a Gleason score of nine means that the cancerous cells 'look very abnormal'.
It also means the disease is 'likely to grow quickly'.
Responding to the news, 78-year-old Trump - whose two non-consecutive terms as 45th and 47th president sandwiched Biden's presidency - took to Truth Social to share a statement on the matter.
He penned: "Melania and I are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis.
"We extend our warmest and best wishes to Jill and the family, and we wish Joe a fast and successful recovery."
Trump's eldest child, Donald Trump Jr, however, clearly opted for a totally different reaction to the news online.
He's since been slammed as 'disgraceful' over his response.
Trump Jr took to X soon after the announcement to caption an image reading: "BREAKING: Joe Biden has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Politics aside, we wish him a speedy recovery!" with 'Agreed 100%'.
However, he then shared a post from a doctor speculating about Biden's diagnosis.
Trump Jr captioned the screenshot: "What I want to know is how did Dr. Jill Biden miss stage five metastatic cancer or is this yet another coverup???"
Bear in mind, Biden's wife, Dr Jill Biden, holds a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.), not a medical degree with her title 'Dr.' reflecting her academic achievement rather than any medical qualification.
One X user responded: "You're a disgrace," while a second called the post 'tasteless'.
Tyla has previously reached out to Joe Biden's office for comment.
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact Macmillan’s Cancer Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 8am–8pm seven days a week.