Trump's weight gain raises health alarms
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Donald Trump's weight has reportedly increased by approximately 10 kilograms (22 pounds) in just over three years, raising health concerns among medical experts.
- His weight was recorded at 97.5 kg (215 lbs) during his booking in Georgia in August 2023, and later at 108 kg (238 lbs) in a May 2024 medical report.
- Despite advice from doctors to focus on weight loss and dietary changes, Trump has shown little willingness to alter his eating habits, particularly his fondness for fast food and cola.
Concerns are mounting over Donald Trump's health as reports indicate a significant weight gain of approximately 10 kilograms (22 pounds) over the past three years. Medical experts are flagging this increase as a serious risk factor for numerous health issues, including premature disability and death.
According to The Washington Post, Trump's weight was documented at 97.5 kilograms (215 pounds) during his booking at an election interference case in Georgia in August 2023. However, a White House medical report released in May 2024 listed his weight at 108 kilograms (238 pounds). This represents a gain of about 10.5 kilograms in roughly 33 months, and over 6 kilograms since a previous report in April 2023.
White House physicians have repeatedly advised Trump, known for his love of fast food and dislike for strenuous exercise, to prioritize weight loss, improve his diet, and engage in regular physical activity. His well-documented fondness for items like McDonald's cheeseburgers and his creation of a "cola button" on his desk underscore his dietary habits.
The presidentโs health must be a priority, and addressing the obesity issue should be as high a priority as securing his protection.
Despite these recommendations, Trump has reportedly shown little inclination to change his lifestyle. He has been quoted as saying, "Junk food is fine, and other food might not be good. A lot of people who worried about their weight have died, and we are here, healthy and well." However, external medical professionals, like Dr. Scott Cahlan, director of the National Weight and Wellness Center, emphasize that addressing his obesity should be as high a priority as his security.
The reports highlight a potential disconnect between Trump's perceived health and the medical assessments, raising questions about the long-term implications of his weight on his well-being and ability to serve.
Junk food is fine, and other food might not be good. A lot of people who worried about their weight have died, and we are here, healthy and well.
Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.