29-2-2024 (WASHINGTON) President Joe Biden, 81, remains “fit for duty” and exercises at least five days a week, according to his doctor, Dr Kevin O’Connor, who released details of the president’s annual physical on February 28. The memo stated that Biden had a root canal in 2023 and is receiving treatment for sleep apnea but is overall in good health.
While President Biden continues to display a stiff gait, it has not worsened since 2023. Dr O’Connor noted that the president has “peripheral neuropathy” in both feet, along with gastroesophageal reflux, allergies, and spinal arthritis, all of which are managed with medication.
“The President feels well, and this year’s physical identified no new concerns,” stated Dr O’Connor. “He continues to be fit for duty and fully executes all of his responsibilities without any exemptions or accommodations.”
President Biden’s health has been under increased scrutiny as he runs for re-election, being the oldest president in US history. The physical examination took place at a military hospital in suburban Maryland, and upon returning to the White House, Biden assured reporters that the results were consistent with the previous year, stating, “Everything is great.”
In 2023, Biden’s physical exam declared him healthy and “fit for duty,” even after recovering from a bout of Covid-19 in 2022. The recent examination comes as Biden prepares for a likely rematch with former President Donald Trump in the upcoming November 5 presidential election.
Both candidates, Biden and Trump, have exchanged accusations about each other’s mental decline. The issue of age has been raised by Trump’s last Republican rival, Nikki Haley, who suggested that both men are too old for the presidency and should undergo cognitive tests.
White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre stated that President Biden has not taken a cognitive test and does not require one. Despite concerns about his age, Biden, known for his interest in golf and biking, maintained a light-hearted response when asked if there was anything for Americans to be concerned about, joking, “Well, they think I look too young.”
