Trump to get "routine annual" medical exam 7 months after last visit to Walter Reed

Trump will undergo a doctor's appointment on Tuesday at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, his third visit in 13 months, a cadence that has sparked questions about his health. The White House described the outing as a routine annual dental and medical assessment, part of his regular preventive care. At almost 80, with a June birthday, he is the oldest person to take the oath and the second-oldest U.S. president after Joe Biden. His last full physical was in April of last year, and he later said he had aced the cognitive test, with a White House memo calling him in excellent health.

Months later, he returned for a scheduled follow-up in October that renewed concerns, and in December the White House disclosed a CT scan to further assess cardiovascular and abdominal health. White House physician Capt. Sean Barbabella said the president remains in excellent overall health, though footage showing bruised hands and occasional lethargy during appearances has fueled ongoing scrutiny. In January, Trump told the Wall Street Journal he regretted the October CT scan because of the speculation and attributed the hand bruising to taking too much aspirin.

White House aides and allies have defended his vitality, citing his demanding schedule and daily contact with White House physicians and world leaders. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung highlighted his focus and stamina on social media, while Cabinet members have continued to weigh in on his health throughout his second term. The article situates the visit within a pattern of high public attention to presidential health as voters consider leadership capability amid a busy schedule and international responsibilities.