Joe Biden’s Health Adjustments Over the Past Year, As Detailed by His Physician
© Andrew Harnik
Over the past year, President Joe Biden has made several adjustments to his health regimen, none of which impede his ability to fully serve as President, as confirmed by his physician. The president’s annual health report, unveiled recently, highlights the addition of Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy to his nightly routine to combat sleep apnea symptoms. Furthermore, Biden has incorporated the use of esomeprazole, commonly known as Nexium, into his evening regimen to alleviate acid reflux issues and underwent a root canal procedure in June.
Kevin O’Conner, the president’s physician, described Biden in the report as “a healthy, active, robust 81-year-old male,” affirming his fitness to fulfill presidential duties effectively. This health evaluation gains significance in light of the upcoming 2024 election, with Biden being the oldest president in office. Should he secure reelection, he would be 86 by his second term’s conclusion.
According to a report by Newsweek, Amid scrutiny over Biden’s age and cognitive abilities, White House officials and the president’s supporters have sought to mitigate concerns. Even as debates persist within the Democratic ranks, Donald Trump, the Republican primary leader at 77, has criticized Biden’s competence rather than his age.
In a recent health checkup, it was determined that Biden did not require a cognitive assessment, as stated by White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. Post-exam, Biden humorously remarked to journalists about being told he appears “too young.” This health summary follows Special Counsel Robert Hur’s report on Biden’s handling of classified documents, which portrayed him as forgetful due to age, a depiction the administration has staunchly refuted.
Republicans often highlight Biden’s public speaking errors as indicative of cognitive decline, a critique Democrats counter by pointing to similar errors by Trump. Surveys consistently suggest that the public perceives both potential candidates as overly aged for a second term. A Redfield & Wilton Strategies poll found that 61% of voters see Biden as too old for re-election, while 40% view Trump similarly.
Despite these challenges, Biden’s team remains confident in his capability for another term, with the First Lady asserting Biden’s productivity. Concerns about the president’s age and policy decisions, such as his approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict, have surfaced among Democrats. Nonetheless, Biden’s re-election campaign proceeds with minimal opposition, and he has personally dismissed health concerns, asserting his mental acuity and achievements in office.
