Donald Trump, the oldest person ever elected president of the United States, completed what he described as a semiannual physical at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Friday. The visit comes just days before he is set to travel to the Middle East following a recent ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The White House had earlier described the visit as a “routine yearly checkup,” despite Trump already having had his annual physical in April. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt did not clarify why the president was undergoing another exam so soon after the yearly evaluation. Trump left the White House at about 10:45 a.m. and returned around 2:15 p.m., slightly ahead of schedule. He did not take questions from reporters, and the White House has not indicated when full results will be released. In remarks to reporters on Thursday, Trump referred to the upcoming visit as part of a “semiannual physical” routine he follows. “I’m meeting with the troops, and I’m also going to do a, sort of, semiannual physical, which I do. I think I’m in great shape, but I’ll let you know,” he said in the Oval Office. A summary from Trump’s doctor, Sean Barbabella, stated that the checkup was part of a health maintenance plan. The president underwent evaluations that included advanced imaging and laboratory testing, all of which were considered routine. Barbabella noted that Trump remains in “exceptional health,” with a cardiac age reportedly 14 years younger than his actual age of 79. Trump’s April annual exam similarly found him “fully fit” to serve as commander in chief. The report highlighted a weight loss of 20 pounds since 2020 and an active lifestyle contributing to his overall wellbeing. Since April, Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition common in older adults that can cause swelling, particularly in the legs. He also received attention for a bruise on his hand, attributed to frequent handshakes and the use of aspirin as part of standard cardiovascular prevention. Images of a purplish mark on Trump’s hand had sparked online speculation about his health, with some assuming it indicated a serious condition. The White House disclosed details about the chronic venous insufficiency diagnosis to dispel such rumors. During his April exam, Trump also passed a short screening test assessing various brain functions. His previous medical summaries included information on weight, body mass index, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, past surgeries, and mental health screenings. Presidents have significant discretion over which health details they make public, and Trump’s prior reports generally emphasized positive results with limited specifics. Concerns about Trump’s health have persisted since his first term, often fueled by periods when he was out of public view. Earlier this summer, speculation about his condition intensified when he was absent from public events for several days. Theories circulated online suggesting serious illness, which Trump countered with a public statement claiming, “NEVER FELT BETTER IN MY LIFE!” The message, however, only heightened speculation about a possible cover-up. Despite ongoing scrutiny, Trump appears determined to maintain his public schedule. His semiannual checkup aligns with his plans to visit the Middle East, signaling that he remains actively engaged in presidential duties. The White House has yet to release a full report from the Friday exam, leaving analysts and the public to rely on the limited summary provided by Barbabella. As Trump prepares for international travel, medical experts continue to monitor his health, noting that maintaining cardiovascular and overall fitness is crucial for leaders in advanced age. The president’s regimen and medical evaluations aim to address these needs while managing conditions like chronic venous insufficiency, ensuring he can continue his work without major disruptions. Trump’s approach to health disclosure remains consistent with his previous terms, highlighting achievements and downplaying concerns. While the semiannual physical is unusual compared to typical presidential routines, it reflects a proactive strategy to manage health risks amid a demanding schedule. The upcoming Middle East trip will be the first major overseas engagement since his April physical, making the checkup a critical step in preparing for diplomatic responsibilities.