President Donald Trump remains in “excellent” health, according to a memo released by the White House on Friday, despite experiencing lower leg swelling and benign hand bruising. The memo, written by Dr Sean Barbabella, stated that Trump “demonstrates strong cardiac, pulmonary, neurological and overall physical function” and is “fully fit to carry out all duties” of the presidency.
The examination took place on Tuesday at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, marking Trump’s fourth hospital visit in his second term and third in 13 months. The president, who will turn 80 on 14 June, is the oldest person ever elected to the White House. His health has been under scrutiny after photographs revealed swollen ankles, bruised hands and a blotchy neck in the past year.
Dr Barbabella noted that Trump had “slight lower leg swelling … with improvement from last year” and continued hand bruising, which he described as “common”, “benign” and “consistent with minor soft tissue irritation related to frequent handshaking in the setting of aspirin use for cardiovascular prevention”. The memo did not address a skin treatment on the president’s neck in March, nor did it mention a repeat of the MRI scan he underwent in October.
The president’s cardiac function was deemed normal, and a comprehensive neurological examination showed “normal mental status”, including screenings for depression and anxiety. Trump’s height was recorded as 6ft 3in (190cm) and weight as 238lbs (108kg). The memo recommended preventive counselling, including guidance on diet, a low-dose aspirin, increased physical activity and continued weight loss.
