President Donald Trump is slated for a medical checkup at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Tuesday. This forthcoming visit spotlights his health once more, as he approaches his 80th birthday. Trump, the oldest U.S. president at the time of his election, has had four consultations with medical experts since resuming office last year.
There has been growing attention on Trump’s health since his return to office, particularly concerning images showing bruised hands and swollen ankles. Although officials assert he is in robust health, some medical experts remain skeptical. Presidents have significant discretion in releasing health information. Despite once questioning Joe Biden’s health, Trump has kept details about his own physical condition relatively private.
Jacob Appel, a physician and professor at Mount Sinai Hospital, mentions that there is no mandatory requirement for presidents to have annual checkups or publish the results. President Richard Nixon was the first modern president to disclose his annual medical exams. Since then, the practice has become a convention.
Review of Trump’s Medical Reports
January 2018: First Physical of First Term
On January 12, 2018, Trump underwent his first presidential medical checkup at Walter Reed. The results were detailed, and Dr. Ronny Jackson described the exam as successful, deeming Trump in excellent health. The exam lasted several hours, examining blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, heart rate, and weight.
Trump was 239 pounds, with a body mass index (BMI) of 29.9, categorizing him as overweight. His blood pressure was 122/74, and total cholesterol at 223, necessitating a low dose of Crestor—a cholesterol medication. Trump achieved a perfect score on a cognitive test designed to identify early signs of memory loss.
February 2019: Annual Physical
Trump had his annual physical at Walter Reed on February 8, 2019. The report indicated Trump was officially obese at 243 pounds and a BMI of 30.4. Dr. Sean P. Conley described Trump’s health as very good overall. His heart rate was 70 beats per minute, and blood pressure at 118/80. Routine lab tests showed normal vital organ function and blood counts. Cholesterol levels were 196, with LDL slightly elevated, prompting an increase in the statin dosage.
November 2019: Medical Tests
In November 2019, Trump’s two-hour visit to Walter Reed was part of his annual physical yet omitted from public scheduling. Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham stated the visit was to commence the annual checkup early, amid scheduling uncertainties. Interim checkups remained off the public record.
June 2020: Malaria Drug Disclosure
A report from April 2020 noted Trump being closely monitored for side effects from a two-week hydroxychloroquine course, used to prevent COVID-19. Trump showed minimal changes in health metrics, weighing 244 pounds with a BMI of 30.5. Blood pressure measured at 121/79, and cholesterol was at 167. The medication rosuvastatin was prescribed for cholesterol management. Other medications included aspirin and finasteride for prostate and hair loss concerns.
October 2020: COVID-19 Hospitalization
Trump was hospitalized in October 2020 due to COVID-19, just weeks before the election. Despite updates, inconsistent information on his condition led to a credibility crisis. Reports post-administration suggested the infection was more severe than publicly acknowledged.
April 2025: Second Term Physical
Following his recent return to office, Trump’s five-hour physical at Walter Reed in April 2025 entailed an extensive array of tests. Physician Sean Barbabella reported Trump’s cognitive and physical health as excellent. Trump weighed 224 pounds, lowering his BMI to 28. The report noted full joint and muscle function, previous cataract surgeries, and a benign polyp found during a colonoscopy in July 2024.
July 2025: Health Diagnosis
In July 2025, Trump received a diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency, explaining visible leg swelling. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt mentioned the condition to counter rumors about his health.
October 2025: Follow-up Check
An October follow-up at Walter Reed raised questions on the frequency of visits. The White House acknowledged advanced testing during the visit, but specifics were limited.
May 2026: Current Scheduled Checkup
Scheduled for May 26, Trump’s upcoming visit to Walter Reed includes routine dental and medical evaluations. This examination draws attention, with observers watching for the extent of information the White House will share.
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