Journalism of Courage
US President Donald Trump, 79, is in “exceptional health,” with a cardiac age of 65, according to a medical memo released by the White House on Friday. Trump’s physician, Sean Barbabella, said the assessment showed the president’s cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological, and physical performance remained strong.
“Trump remains in exceptional health, exhibiting strong cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological, and physical performance,” Barbabella wrote in the memo, addressed to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. The evaluation noted that Trump’s “cardiac age–a validated measure of cardiovascular vitality via ECG–was found to be approximately 14 years younger than his chronological age,” Reuters reported.
Trump, who became the oldest person to assume the US presidency when he returned to office in January, has maintained a busy schedule and continues to travel and work internationally, with plans to visit the Middle East this weekend following his role in brokering a Gaza ceasefire.
During his latest visit to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, Trump received preventive screenings and immunisations, including an annual flu shot and an updated COVID-19 booster in preparation for international travel. The White House described the visit as a routine yearly checkup, which included a meeting and remarks with troops.
Trump’s last extensive physical exam was in April, at which time a memo noted his height of 6 feet 3 inches and weight of 102 kg, well-controlled cholesterol, and overall robustness, including praise for his golfing activity.
Earlier this year, the White House disclosed swelling in Trump’s lower legs and bruising on his right hand. Barbabella said the leg swelling was due to “chronic venous insufficiency,” a benign and common condition in older adults. The hand bruising was attributed to “minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and aspirin use,” part of a standard cardiovascular prevention regimen.
(With inputs from agencies)
