Trump boasts of 'perfect' cognitive test result but medical experts raise concerns
Donald Trump has been declared in ‘excellent health’ following a comprehensive medical examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre, according to the president’s doctor.
Dr Sean Barbabella said the 79-year-old is ‘fully fit’ to serve after undergoing a CT scan, cardiac imaging, cancer screenings and a range of preventative assessments carried out by a team of 22 specialists.
Trump said afterwards that the three-hour check-up went ‘PERFECTLY’.
Pic: Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
In a post on Truth Social, he highlighted his performance on what he described as a ‘difficult cognitive test’, claiming he achieved a perfect score.
‘Unlike other US Presidents, none of whom have ever taken an approved, high difficulty, Cognitive Test, I scored a perfect 30 out of 30, considered “extreme intelligence”,’ he wrote.
‘In fact, this is my fourth such test, all PERFECT or 120 correct answers out of 120 questions asked! It is very rare that anyone gets a Perfect Score, especially when achieved four times in a row.’
Pic: Kent NISHIMURA / AFP via Getty Images
Reports have suggested the test referenced may be the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, commonly used to screen for cognitive impairment.
Dr Jonathan Reiner, Professor of Medicine and Surgery and CNN Medical Analyst, questioned the frequency of the examinations, writing on X: ‘Why did the president have another coronary artery CT? He was last scanned in October. We don’t typically scan patients 6 months later unless we are concerned about a finding on the initial scan.’
Following the check-up, Trump was also advised on lifestyle adjustments after it was noted he had gained 14 lbs (6.4 kg) since April 2025, bringing his weight to 238 lbs (108 kg).
Pic: Aaron Schwartz/Sipa/Bloomberg via Getty Images
While his BMI placed him close to the threshold for obesity, doctors concluded his cognitive and physical performance remain ‘excellent’.
The report also noted minor bruising on his hands, attributed to ‘frequent handshaking’ and described as a common effect of aspirin therapy. A recommendation was made to switch to a low-dose aspirin regimen.
The president’s medical history has previously included a diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency, a condition affecting blood flow in the legs. The latest report said there was slight swelling in the lower limbs but an improvement compared with last year.
Dr Barbabella said Trump showed strong cardiac, pulmonary and neurological function, adding that his busy schedule of meetings, public appearances and activity continued to support his overall wellbeing.
The examination marks his fourth publicly disclosed medical check since returning to office for a second term.
While past administrations have released varying levels of detail on presidential health, there is no legal requirement to publish full medical records, and transparency has differed between presidencies.
Trump, who turns 80 next month, is the oldest person to be elected US president for a second term.
His age and fitness have remained a recurring topic of public discussion, though he has continued to insist he is in strong health and regularly maintains a demanding schedule that includes frequent travel and golf.
