Former President Joe Biden’s recent revelation of an aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis brought fresh scrutiny to a little-explored area of presidential history: serious illness endured by commanders-in-chief. At least 10 U.S. presidents are known to have had some type of cancer, in or out of office.

George Washington – A 1794 Melanoma Mystery

Despite the medical science of the time, indications are that George Washington possibly had skin cancer in 1794. Dr. James Tate performed a successful removal of the lesion, and Washington was reportedly free from cancer thereafter. He made efforts to guard his skin, such as wearing wide-brimmed hats and carrying umbrellas.

Ulysses S. Grant – Throat Cancer After Office

Grant was diagnosed with throat cancer in 1884, seven years after leaving office. His condition brought unbearable pain, particularly when he tried to speak. Doctors chronicled his deterioration carefully. He died in 1885 due to the disease.

Grover Cleveland – Secret Surgery Aboard a Yacht

When the president was during a financial panic in 1893, Cleveland had a mouth tumor diagnosed. To avert national unrest, he had a secret surgery on a yacht where his upper jaw and hard palate were partially excised. He recovered well, and for many years, the public remained ignorant.

Calvin Coolidge – Rumored but Suspected

Although never officially diagnosed, authorities believe Coolidge possibly had melanoma because of a lesion that appeared in photographs. The problem was not treated as cancer or recognized. He passed away from a heart attack in 1933.

Franklin D. Roosevelt – Historical Speculation

FDR, who guided the country through World War II, was never diagnosed with cancer. Yet, others think he had melanoma after a dark lesion was noted on his skin. Roosevelt died in 1945 of a cerebral hemorrhage during his fourth term.

Ronald Reagan – A Public Battle with Colon Cancer

In 1985, Reagan underwent colon cancer surgery while still serving as president. He fully recovered and returned to presidential responsibilities. Reagan also underwent treatment for several basal cell carcinomas, a prevalent skin cancer type. His openness established a public precedent.

B. George H.W. Bush – Routine Skin Cancer Treatment

Bush had non-melanoma skin cancers in later life and underwent small surgeries on his scalp and face. Although these treatments were not life-threatening, they were a testament to the value of consistent medical attention. Bush stayed active in his 90s.

Bill Clinton – A Simple Post-White House Procedure

Following his presidency, Clinton had a basal cell carcinoma excised from his face. It was detected early and was removed with a simple procedure. He recovered completely and had no additional complications.

Jimmy Carter – A Melanoma Battle Won

Carter announced in 2015 that he had melanoma that had spread to his liver and brain. He underwent surgery, radiation, and immunotherapy, and then shockingly declared himself cancer-free in a matter of months. Carter’s recovery was a triumph for contemporary cancer medicine.

Joe Biden – The Newest and Most Advanced Case of Cancer

Joe Biden’s diagnosis is one of the most sophisticated known cancers in a president. Physicians diagnosed high-grade prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. Even though it is severe, it is hormone-sensitive, and treatment is available. Biden is discussing the best possible care with his medical team.

Deeply concerned to hear about @JoeBiden‘s health. Extend our best wishes to him for a quick and full recovery. Our thoughts are with Dr. Jill Biden and the family.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 19, 2025

Considering the Burden of Leadership and Illness

These accounts highlight that even the person in the world’s most influential position is not exempt from severe illness. While some presidents waged their fights quietly, others, such as Reagan, Carter, and now Biden, opened up about the health issues of leadership. As medicine improves, so does the dialogue about the private health of public leaders.