Last week President Biden underwent a colonoscopy at Walter Reed Hospital. A precancerous polyp was found.
The President’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, on Wednesday reported that testing on the polyp has revealed it to be a tubular adenoma, a benign, slow-growing lesion that is thought to be potentially precancerous. The physician said routine surveillance was recommended for the finding and that Biden would be due for his next colonoscopy in seven to 10 years.
During the colonoscopy, a single 3 mm benign-appearing polyp was identified and “removed without difficulty.” O’Connor said the cough is likely a symptom of gastroesophageal reflex, which may also contribute to occasional sinus congestion.
O’Connor, who said Biden has displayed such symptoms “for as long as I have known him,” said an otolaryngology exam found no polyps or tumors and a gastroenterology exam found no signs of ulcers, cancer or other serious conditions. A lung examination came back normal. “President Biden remains a healthy, vigorous 78-year-old male, who is fit to execute the duties of the presidency,” O’Connor said.”
Presidents are not required to publicly disclose the results of their annual checkups.
Former President Donald Trump refused to go under anesthesia when he underwent a colonoscopy during his term in office, according to a book by former press secretary Stephanie Grisham.
As part of Constitutional procedure, Biden signed a letter to the leaders of the Senate and House of Representatives informing them that Harris is the acting president while he is unconscious and unable to discharge his duties, the AP reported. Important trivia is a Black woman from an HBCU was the President of the United States for about 85 minutes.
Biden then sent them another letter after awaking from the procedure and resuming his duties.
