NewsPresident Biden declared fully capable for duties amid health speculation

President Biden declared fully capable for duties amid health speculation

Joe Biden

Images source: © EPA PAP | YURI GRIPAS / POOL

4:32 AM EST, February 29, 2024

In his report released by the White House, Dr. O'Connor stated, "The President continues to be capable of fulfilling duties and fully performs all his tasks without any exceptions."

Dr. O'Connor also mentioned that his conclusions were backed by specialists from various fields, including ophthalmology, orthopedics, physical therapy, neurology, cardiology, radiology, dentistry, and dermatology, who all examined the President.

The most significant change in the President's health compared to last year is the commencement of using a PAP device for sleep apnea. The President began using this device due to sleep problems. Dr. O'Connor underscored that sleep apnea is a common condition and added that the skin cancer removed from Biden last year has not returned, though continuous monitoring is necessary.

Biden's health as a campaign issue

As in previous years, Biden continues to manage several minor health issues, such as atrial fibrillation, elevated cholesterol, a stiff gait due to arthritis, gastroesophageal reflux, and seasonal allergies. The President takes medication for these conditions. According to Dr. O'Connor's report, Biden stands 6 feet tall and weighs 176 pounds.

The President's health, along with his age - being the oldest serving president in the country's history at 81 - is a key point of discussion in the presidential campaign. White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre mentioned on Wednesday that Dr. O'Connor and other doctors who examined Biden have determined that the President does not need cognitive ability tests.

Previously, Biden's rival, Donald Trump, and Trump's competitor in the Republican primaries, Nikki Haley, called for such tests, highlighting his age (81 years). Biden, responding to the examination results, said they went well. He humorously added, "They think I look too young."