Past Presidents’ Physicals: What We Know So Far

CNN looked at old reports from physical exams of former presidents. These reports usually include basic information like height, weight, and blood pressure. But they also include details like how Obama’s doctor removed a skin tag, how George H. W. Bush’s doctor drained a cyst on his finger, and how Gerald Ford’s doctor pushed for a swimming pool at the White House.

Presidential candidates aren’t required to share the results of their medical exam, but Jackson did so during a meeting on Tuesday and said on Friday that Trump was in “excellent health.”

Here is a look at how healthy past leaders were based on the exams they had.

In July 1976, Ford had another physical. During this visit, his doctor said, “He has had no complaints … other than mild discomfort in his knee following periods of prolonged standing. The President has maintained his physical capacity for long working hours. He sleeps very well and continues to follow his diet and weighs between 195 and 198 pounds.”

Ford’s doctor wrote in 1975 that “the completion of the new White House swimming pool will provide him with short intervals for relaxation that can easily be fitted into his busy schedule.”

“I would like to take the time to acknowledge those citizens who, by their contributions, make a swimming pool available for the President in the White House,” Dr. William Lukash said at a press meeting in January 1976. “I might add that the President was reluctant to use the pool during the winter months because of his concern about energy conservation. I spoke to him about this and felt it was to his advantage to have the use of this pool because I thought it would be an improvement in his sense of well-being and make him more conducive to his feeling better the next day. … The President swims approximately 24 lengths of the pool, which adds up to about a quarter of a mile, and he does this in about 14 minutes.”

Ronald Reagan from 1981 to 1989

Bush’s press assistant said in a statement that a “sebaceous cyst on the third finger of his left hand was drained. The President is wearing a Band-Aid on the finger, which he can remove within the next few hours. This cyst has been present for many years and does not present a medical problem.”

“In excellent health,” Reagan was told by the White House physician after being checked out by 14 experts in October 1981. Notably, he said that the president had “fully recovered” from the gunshot wounds he got in March 1981 during an attempt on his life.

Related Posts

I ignored this simple floor trick for years—until trying it changed everything

Keeping floors clean can feel like a never-ending task, as dust, dirt, and debris quickly return through daily activities. From shoes tracking in particles to pets shedding…

The Surprising Link Between Chicken Color and Quality Explained

When it comes to chicken, the color of the meat often raises questions about quality, taste, and health. Some pieces appear pale or slightly pink, while others…

31-Acre Rural Property with Farmhouse and Development Potential in Blaine, Kentucky

This 31.02-acre property in Blaine offers a quiet rural setting with a mix of open fields, wooded areas, and strong potential for future development. With over 30…

A retired aircraft accident investigator reveals a chilling new theory about the recent New York plane crash—suggesting a critical breakdown in coordination between key authorities rather than mechanical failure, raising urgent questions about communication protocols, oversight responsibilities and systemic weaknesses that may have contributed to the devastating incident unfolding tragedy

The moments before midnight on Flight 8646 felt like any other landing, with passengers quietly anticipating arrival. Seventy-six people were on board, each expecting a routine end…

Benefits of Drinking Water on an Empty Stomach: Morning Hydration, Energy Boost, and Digestion Support Explained While Separating Health Facts From Myths About Detox, Metabolism, and Wellness, Emphasizing That Consistent Daily Hydration Matters More Than Timing for Long-Term Health, Focus, and Overall Body Function 💧

Water is essential for human life, supporting nearly every bodily function. After sleep, the body wakes slightly dehydrated, making that first morning glass of water feel instinctive…

Backpack Discovered During Routine Maintenance May Offer New Insights in Ongoing Investigation

The case began not with a suspect or confession, but with a routine maintenance task that led to an unexpected discovery. A city worker was clearing a…