Trump undergoes annual medical exam days before turning 80

Days before turning 80, US President Donald Trump has undergone his annual medical examination, a routine presidential event unfolding against renewed scrutiny of his health.

Mr Trump, the oldest person ever sworn in as president, has frequently contrasted his own physical and mental stamina with that of his Democratic predecessor Joe Biden.

Still, his latest medical and dental evaluation at Walter Reed Military Hospital outside Washington comes as questions linger over reports that he has seemed drowsy in meetings and over visible bruising on his hand.

The White House typically issues a summary of a president’s physical within hours or days, though how much information it chooses to disclose is entirely up to the administration.

For years, Mr Trump has drawn criticism from opponents and watchdogs who say he has not been fully transparent about his health.

He had two medical check-ups last year — a scheduled exam in April and an unscheduled hospital visit in October that fuelled another round of speculation.

Make-up covers the back of one of the president’s hands

Last summer, the White House said Mr Trump had been examined for swelling in his legs and was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a common condition in which weakened vein valves allow blood to collect, leading to swelling, cramping and changes in the skin.

That disclosure followed several public appearances in which Mr Trump was seen with swollen ankles.

Since returning to office in 2025, Mr Trump has also repeatedly been seen with bruising on his right hand, most often concealed with makeup.

The White House has said the marks are linked to the aspirin he takes as part of what it described as a “standard” cardiovascular health regimen.

Donald Trump pumps his fist while standing beside Vice President JD Vance at a recent event

Following his October check-up, Mr Trump said an MRI conducted during the visit found his cardiovascular health to be “excellent”.

In a letter released by the White House at the time, his doctor, US Navy Captain Sean Barbabella, said Mr Trump’s cardiac age “was found to be approximately 14 years younger than his chronological age”.

Mr Trump has also been pressed over moments in which he appeared to doze off during meetings, including at a session with his Cabinet.

“Some people said, he closed his eyes. Look, it got pretty boring,” Mr Trump told laughing officials in February.

“I didn’t sleep. I just closed them because I wanted to get the hell outta here.”