Doctors grow concerned over Trump's rising weight
US President Donald Trump weighed about 108 kilograms at his May health check, up from previous years. The White House calls his health excellent, but outside physicians warn the weight gain deserves serious attention.
US President Donald Trump's weight has climbed noticeably in recent years, according to data from his annual physical exam reported by The Independent, citing The Washington Post. At the May checkup, the 80-year-old president weighed roughly 108 kilograms, or 238 pounds — 14 pounds more than a year earlier and 23 pounds more than in 2023.
The White House physician's report lists Trump's height as 190.5 centimeters. His overall health was described as excellent, with normal heart, lung and neurological function, a perfect score of 30 out of 30 on a cognitive test, and blood pressure of 105/71 mmHg in May. Still, the doctor recommended improving his diet, increasing physical activity and continuing to lose weight.
Outside experts more cautious
Other medical experts view the trend with more concern. Scott Kahan, director of the National Center for Weight and Wellness, told The Washington Post that obesity is a major risk factor for numerous health problems as well as premature disability and death, and said addressing the president's weight should be treated as a priority comparable to the protection provided by the Secret Service. If the 2023 figure is accurate, Trump's weight would have risen by about 10.4 kilograms over three years, though the newspaper notes it is unclear exactly how that earlier figure was obtained.
Trump has long been known for his fondness for fast food, particularly McDonald's, and Diet Coke, along with late-night snacking. Former emergency physician Stuart Fischer said in June that someone should have a serious conversation with the president about his weight, adding that the lack of change despite doctors' advice was concerning.
The White House has dismissed concerns about the president's physical and mental fitness. Spokesman Davis Ingle emphasized Trump's energy, work capacity and public availability, noting his continued demanding schedule. Trump himself has repeatedly referenced his weight publicly, including joking in June about weight-loss medication and comparing himself in July to former President William Howard Taft, historically the heaviest US president.
