Politics & Government
President's Doctor Says Trump's Health Is 'Excellent'
"The president's overall health is excellent," said Rear Admiral Ronny Jackson.
WASHINGTON, DC — After weeks of speculation about President Trump's mental well-being and fitness for office, Rear Admiral Dr. Ronny Jackson delivered a briefing for reporters declaring that the commander in chief is in "excellent health."
"His cardiac performance during his physical exam was very good," he said. "He continues to enjoy the significant long-term cardiac and overall health benefits that come from a lifelong abstinence from tobacco and alcohol."
Jackson said he discussed introducing more physical activity into the president's routine and improving his diet. He noted that the president has a history of elevated cholesterol, for which he is prescribed a low dose of the medication Crestor. Jackson increased the dosage of Crestor.
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Trump should lose about 10 to 15 pounds in the next year, Jackson has recommended. He weighs 239 pounds. Despite Trump being more interested in improving his diet than his exercise regime, the doctor said he is insisting on both.
"He and I will work together over the next year to incorporate a good plan so we can meet those goals," Jackson said.
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On the question of Trump's mental fitness, Jackson said he performed a cognitive assessment at the president's request. Jackson said Trump did "exceedingly well" on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, which demonstrates the ability to follow basic instructions. He added that he wouldn't have done a cognitive assessment were it not for the president's request.
Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
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