Donald Trump, the oldest person ever elected US president, underwent what he described as a “semiannual physical” at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Friday. The visit, announced earlier in the week by the White House, comes as Trump prepares to travel to the Middle East following a ceasefire deal in the Israel-Hamas war. The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, had initially described it as a “routine yearly checkup”, despite the president having had his annual physical in April.
Trump left the White House at about 10.45am and returned at 2.15pm, slightly ahead of schedule. He did not answer questions from reporters upon his arrival, and the White House has not indicated when it will release further details. When asked about the discrepancy in timing, Trump told reporters on Thursday it was a “semiannual physical”. He added: “I think I’m in great shape, but I’ll let you know.”
A summary from Trump’s physician, Sean Barbabella, stated that the visit was part of the president’s health maintenance plan and included advanced imaging and laboratory testing. Barbabella described Trump as being in “exceptional health” and claimed his cardiac age was found to be 14 years younger than his actual age of 79. The doctor also noted that Trump had lost 20lb (9kg) since a medical exam in June 2020 and maintained an “active lifestyle”.
Since his April physical, Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition common in older adults that can cause swelling in the legs. His physician also addressed bruising on the president’s hand, attributing it to frequent handshaking and aspirin use. Recent images of a purplish bruise on Trump’s hand, apparently covered with makeup, had fuelled online speculation about his health. Leavitt disclosed the diagnosis to dispel such rumours.
Presidents have broad discretion over what health information they release. Trump’s April exam summary included details on weight, body mass index, past surgeries, mental health screenings, cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Previous reports have often been flattering but scarce on specifics. Trump has historically been guarded about his health, and concerns intensified over the summer when he withdrew from public view for several days, prompting speculation. He later insisted he had “NEVER FELT BETTER IN MY LIFE!”
