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Trump declared 'fully fit' after medical exam
President Donald Trump is in excellent health and fully capable of carrying out his duties as commander-in-chief, according to a medical report released by the White House on Friday. The assessment, based on a routine physical exam conducted earlier this week at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, was authored by the president's physician, Captain Sean P. Barbabella.
Barbabella wrote that Trump, who turns 80 on June 14, is 'fully fit to carry out all duties of the Commander-in-Chief and Head of State.' The report noted that Trump's heart, lungs, eyes, and other vital organs were tested and found to be largely normal. The president's cardiac age was measured at roughly 14 years younger than his chronological age, based on an AI-enhanced ECG analysis.
Key findings from the physical exam
The White House memo detailed several specific health metrics from the May 26 examination, which included consultations with 22 specialty providers. Trump's vitals showed he weighs 238 pounds (108 kg), with a blood pressure of 105/71 mmHg — well within the normal range — and a temperature of 98.7°F.
Cardiovascular and cognitive health
Trump continues to take medication to manage his cholesterol levels, along with a daily low-dose aspirin regimen for cardiovascular prevention. He scored a perfect 30 out of 30 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), a standard screening tool for cognitive impairment. The president's cognitive health in older leaders has been a topic of public discussion, and this result provides some reassurance.
Minor findings: bruising and leg swelling
The report acknowledged two minor physical findings: slight swelling in the lower legs (chronic venous insufficiency) and bruising on the president's hands. The hand bruising, which has been the subject of intense media speculation in recent weeks, was attributed to Trump's frequent handshaking combined with his use of aspirin, which thins the blood and increases bruising susceptibility. Barbabella noted that the leg swelling showed improvement compared to the previous exam.
The memo also noted scarring on Trump's right ear, consistent with the gunshot injury he sustained during the July 2024 assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Background and context
This was Trump's third medical check-up in 13 months, reflecting the heightened scrutiny surrounding the health of the oldest president in American history. Upon his second inauguration in January 2025 at age 78, Trump became the oldest person ever sworn in as U.S. president. If he serves until the end of his term in January 2029, he will be 82 years, 7 months old.
The president has frequently touted his health on social media. Following the exam, he posted on Truth Social: 'I just completed my semi-annual medical checkup at Walter Reed Military Medical Center. Everything checked out PERFECTLY. Thank you to the great doctors and staff!'
Public perception and political implications
Despite the positive medical report, public opinion polls from May 2026 show that a majority of Americans do not believe Trump is mentally fit to be president. Concerns about his stamina have grown after he appeared to fall asleep during multiple meetings. Critics also point to the age limits for US presidential candidates debate, which has gained traction in recent years.
Dr. Jeffrey Kuhlman, a former White House physician, commented: 'For a president of Trump's age, a complete physical would be expected to include advanced heart testing, cancer screening, and a thorough cognitive assessment. The disclosed results are positive, but the level of detail is at the White House's discretion.'
The report also comes amid ongoing discussions about the Goldwater rule and presidential mental fitness, which prohibits mental health professionals from diagnosing public figures without direct examination.
Lifestyle and daily routine
Trump does not drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes, and he has never used drugs. However, he subscribes to the fringe 'battery theory' — the debunked belief that physical activity depletes a finite store of energy — and avoids most exercise apart from golf. His physician has advised him to increase physical activity and continue with dietary improvements. Trump's diet has historically included fast food and Diet Coke, though the report did not provide specific nutritional details.
Barbabella offered preventive advice 'including dietary guidance, recommendations to continue low-dose aspirin, increase physical activity, and continue weight loss efforts.'
FAQ
What did Trump's 2026 physical exam find?
The exam found Trump in excellent health with normal heart, lung, and eye function. His cardiac age was 14 years younger than his actual age, and he scored 30/30 on a cognitive test.
Why does Trump have bruises on his hands?
The White House physician attributed the bruising to frequent handshaking combined with Trump's daily aspirin regimen, which thins the blood and makes bruising more likely.
How old is President Trump?
Trump was born on June 14, 1946. He will turn 80 in June 2026, making him the oldest sitting U.S. president in history.
Is Trump taking any medications?
Yes, Trump takes medication to control his cholesterol and a daily low-dose aspirin for cardiovascular prevention.
What was Trump's cognitive test score?
Trump scored 30 out of 30 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), indicating no cognitive impairment.
Sources
White House medical memo by Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, May 30, 2026; Newsweek; The New York Times; The New York Post; Northeastern University; Wikipedia.
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