Trump, 78, Declares ‘Very Good Shape’ Following First Presidential Health Check

WASHINGTON, 12 April 2025 (BSS/AFP) – United States President Donald Trump has declared himself in “very good shape” following his first annual medical examination since assuming the presidency for a second term. The health check places renewed focus on the physical and cognitive fitness of the oldest individual ever elected to the White House.

At 78, Republican leader Donald Trump finds himself under close scrutiny, not least because of his ongoing criticisms of his predecessor, 82-year-old Democrat Joe Biden, whom he has regularly described as mentally unfit and physically frail. Ironically, Trump himself will be 82 by the conclusion of his current term.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Friday, Trump remarked:

“I felt I was in very good shape. Good heart. I took a cognitive test – I don’t know what to tell you other than I got every answer right.”

Earlier that day, Trump arrived at Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre, just outside Washington, after a short delay linked to discussions on tariff policy.

Writing earlier this week on his social media platform, Truth Social, the president shared:

“I have never felt better, but nevertheless, these things must be done!”

Medical Overview

The official report from the examination is expected to be released on Sunday by White House physician Dr Sean Barbabella. The Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, stated:

“I can confirm the president is in very good shape, as you see on a near daily basis.”

She added that Trump did not undergo any procedures requiring general anaesthesia, such as a colonoscopy, but emphasised the thorough nature of the overall evaluation.

Lifestyle Snapshot

Donald Trump is known for a lifestyle that includes:

Abstaining from alcohol and tobacco

Regular golfing

Indulgence in fast food and well-done steaks

Notably slimmer physique compared to his first term

Though the president appears trimmer than during his previous time in office, he has previously faced criticism for his dietary choices and fluctuating weight.

A History of Unusual Health Claims

Trump’s health has long been a subject of controversy:

In 2015, his doctor, Harold Bornstein, issued a letter claiming Trump would be “the healthiest individual ever elected to the presidency”. Bornstein later revealed that Trump had dictated the letter himself.

In 2018, White House physician Dr Ronny Jackson declared that Trump could “live to be 200 years old” with a better diet. Jackson recommended a 10–15-pound weight loss and noted no signs of cognitive decline.

In 2019, Trump weighed 243 pounds (110 kg) at 6’3″ (1.9 m), officially classifying him as obese. He was also prescribed medication to manage high cholesterol.

In 2020, Trump famously boasted during a Fox News interview that he passed a cognitive test by successfully recalling the words “person, woman, man, camera, TV.”

Age in American Politics

The 2024 US presidential election broke records as Trump and Biden became the oldest pair of major-party candidates to ever face off. Age and cognitive ability were central campaign issues.

Biden’s public image suffered after a faltering performance in a June 2024 televised debate, ultimately leading to his withdrawal from the race amidst escalating concern about his mental fitness.

Trump, capitalising on the moment, has since drawn constant comparisons between his own vitality and Biden’s perceived decline. Meanwhile, the Biden camp accused Trump’s administration of obfuscating the former president’s challenges during his earlier term.

As the political spotlight sharpens its focus on health, transparency, and age, Trump’s latest medical check-up is likely to remain under close observation by allies and critics alike.