Joe Biden to undergo medical checkup before 2024 presidential bid
The White House announced that the President of the United States (US), Joe Biden, will undergo a routine medical checkup and promised to release the 80-year-old's doctor's report. Biden is the oldest-ever President of the US, and his new health report ahead of the presidential election will be closely scrutinized, especially since the Republican 2024 campaign has already begun.
Why does this story matter?
The US President's health checkup comes ahead of his expected bid for the 2024 reelection. The Republican opposition has often questioned Biden's ability to hold office because of his age, citing moments of confusion and slurred speech. Notably, Biden does not smoke or drink, and he has had no major health issues since having brain surgery in 1988.
Joe Biden's last full medical examination
On November 19, 2021, Biden had his last medical checkup and underwent a colonoscopy under general anesthesia. He had transferred his powers to Vice President Kamala Harris for one hour and 25 minutes, making her the first female in America's history to hold the presidential prerogative. Kevin O'Connor, Biden's doctor, revealed that he was fit to carry out his presidential responsibilities.
Key takeaways from Biden's 2021 health checkup
After Biden underwent his last health examination in 2021, the White House published a six-page health report detailing the condition of the 80-year-old President's eyes, heart, pulmonary system, thyroid, intestines, skin, neuro system, ears, throat, and nose. Notably, his last test pointed out that Biden showed minor signs of old age and had a frequent cough caused by gastroesophageal reflux.
Know about US presidents health examination process
The yearly checkup is not required by law but has become a common way for presidents to disclose specific details about their current health. Notably, the checkup happens at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The usual tests during the physical examination include cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, weight, and heart rate—not all of these are released publicly.
Biden's age remains key talking point for presidential polls
In July last year, Biden tested positive for the coronavirus. Hours after testing positive, Biden reassured the nation that "it's going to be OK" and that the symptoms are mild. The US President has shown spectacular stamina for his age since taking charge of the Oval Office, making public appearances, and traveling frequently. However, his age remains a frequent target for Republicans.
Nikki Haley demands mental fitness test for elected officials
Nikki Haley, a 51-year-old former United Nations (UN) ambassador and Republican who has just entered the 2024 presidential race, has called for mental fitness tests for all elected officials over the age of 75. That would also apply to ex-President Trump, 76, whom she is running against.
Trump's Montreal Cognitive Assessment
During his time as the US president, Donald Trump claimed he underwent the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, a ten-minute-long exam created to assess severe cognitive impairment. Under this, individuals are quizzed about things like dates and what a train and bicycle have in common. According to the Washington Post, Trump repeatedly boasted about his immaculate score in White House meetings and on social media.
