White House issues update on Donald Trump's health as president undergoes MRI scan

The White House has revealed details of Donald Trump's recent medical evaluation involving a scan of his cardiovascular system and abdomen.

The US president, 79, underwent a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan in October, which was confirmed in a memo from his doctor, Sean P Barbabella.

The White House physician wrote that the cardiovascular and abdominal imaging was "perfectly normal".

"The purpose of this imaging is preventive: to identify issues early, confirm overall health, and ensure he maintains long-term vitality and function," said Dr Barbabella.

He added that there was "no evidence of arterial narrowing impairing blood flow or abnormalities in the heart or major vessels".

"The heart chambers are normal in size, the vessel walls appear smooth and health, and there are no signs of inflammation, or clotting."

As for the abdominal imaging, he wrote that "all major organs appear very healthy and well-perfused".

"Everything evaluated is functioning within normal limits with no acute or chronic concerns."

He said the imaging was done "because men in his age group benefit from a thorough evaluation of cardiovascular and abdominal health".

While speaking to reporters on Sunday, the US president said he didn't know what part of his body was examined but added: "It wasn't the brain because I took a cognitive test and I aced it."

He described the results of the MRI as "perfect".

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In 2022, Donald Trump described himself as "the healthiest president that's ever lived" but in July was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) after noticing "mild swelling" in his lower legs.

Dr Barbabella said CVI, which causes blood to pool in the veins, was a "benign and common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70".

Concerns were also raised in July about photos which showed bruising on the back of Mr Trump's hand that had been covered with make-up.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified this was "minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin" to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

(c) Sky News 2025: White House issues update on Donald Trump's health as president undergoes MRI scan