President Donald Trump’s recent medical exam included a staggering 22 specialists, nearly double the number from previous check-ups, setting a record for a sitting president.
Medical experts expressed alarm over this unusual figure, raising health concerns for the 79-year-old commander-in-chief, the oldest individual to ever hold the U.S. presidency.
“It is an extraordinary number,” stated Jonathan Reiner, a cardiologist who has treated former vice president Dick Cheney.
The White House clarified that some generalist doctors were counted among the 22 specialists.
Dr. Sean Barbabella, Trump’s physician, reported after the May health exam that Trump “remains in excellent health, demonstrating strong cardiac, pulmonary, neurological and overall physical function.”
Trump echoed this sentiment on Truth Social, proclaiming that “everything” had “checked out PERFECTLY.”
This examination drew intense scrutiny, especially following an unusual mid-year medical screening in October after his annual physical earlier that year.
One doctor criticized the lack of transparency regarding Trump’s cardiovascular testing results. Dr. William Shutze, a Texas vascular surgeon, remarked, “If I was creating a report to send to another physician, I would have mentioned a little bit more about the carotid ultrasound.”
He emphasized the importance of detailing plaque buildup, which is common in many patients.
Additionally, Trump’s medical records indicate he may no longer be taking a standard hair loss prevention drug.
Concerns about health plagued Trump’s predecessor, Joe Biden, previously the oldest man to occupy the White House, and contributed to his campaign's downfall.
Biden's poor debate performance sealed his fate in the 2024 race, leading to intense scrutiny over whether his declining health and mental fitness were concealed from the public.
Critics now point to signs of decline in Trump as well, citing frequent bruises on his hands as evidence. Voter concerns are evident; a recent poll revealed that 59 percent of respondents doubt Trump’s mental acuity for presidential duties, while 55 percent question his physical health.
Online commentators recently ridiculed Trump for seemingly dozing off during the NBA Finals.