Trump in 'excellent health' but should lose weight and exercise more, his doctor says

May 30, 2026

President Donald Trump, who will turn 80 next month, underwent his annual physical examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, with his physician declaring him in excellent health and fully capable of performing presidential duties. The examination revealed Trump scored perfectly on cognitive testing, though his weight increased by 14 pounds to 238 pounds since April 2025, prompting medical guidance on diet and exercise. His doctor addressed previous health concerns, noting improvement in leg swelling from chronic venous insufficiency and explaining that hand bruising results from frequent handshaking combined with his daily aspirin regimen.

Who is affected

Donald Trump (US President)
The American public and electorate
White House staff and administration officials
Captain Sean Barbabella (Trump's examining physician)
Walter Reed National Military Medical Center personnel

What action is being taken

Trump is taking aspirin daily for cardiovascular prevention
Trump is taking two cholesterol control medications
Trump is receiving guidance on diet, physical activity, and continued weight loss
Trump is maintaining a demanding daily schedule with multiple high-level meetings and public engagements
Trump is playing golf as his form of physical activity

Why it matters

The president's health is significant because Trump is the oldest person ever inaugurated as US president, and public confidence in a leader's physical and mental fitness to execute demanding duties is essential for national stability. Given recent heightened scrutiny over presidential age and capability, particularly following concerns about former President Biden's health, transparency about Trump's medical condition addresses public interest in whether he can fulfill the rigorous requirements of the office. His cognitive test results and overall health assessment directly impact perceptions of his ability to serve effectively through his term.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC