**A Peek Into the Health of U.S. Presidents: From Skin Tags to Swimming Pools**
Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a presidential physical exam? CNN dug into historical medical records of former U.S. presidents, revealing not just the basics like height, weight, and blood pressure, but also some surprising tidbits. From Barack Obama’s skin tag removal to George H.W. Bush’s cyst drainage and Gerald Ford’s push for a White House swimming pool, these reports offer a fascinating glimpse into the health and habits of America’s leaders.
While presidential candidates aren’t required to disclose their medical exams, some, like Donald Trump, have chosen to share their results, sparking debates and headlines. Let’s take a closer look at how past presidents stacked up health-wise during their time in office.
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**Gerald Ford (1974-1977): The Swimming Advocate**
In 1975, Ford’s doctor declared him in “excellent health,” with all tests coming back normal. But it wasn’t all routine—Ford’s physician famously advocated for the construction of a White House swimming pool, arguing it would help the president unwind during his demanding schedule. By 1976, Ford was swimming 24 lengths (a quarter-mile) in just 14 minutes, proving the pool was more than just a luxury—it was a wellness tool.
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**Ronald Reagan (1981-1989): The Resilient Leader**
Reagan’s physicals revealed a leader in “remarkable physical condition,” even after surviving an assassination attempt in 1981. Despite a few harmless colon polyps, Reagan’s health remained robust throughout his presidency. His 1988 exam noted his blood pressure had improved, a testament to his active lifestyle and resilience.
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**George H.W. Bush (1989-1993): The Active Commander**
Bush’s 1989 exam showed him in “extremely sound physical condition,” with only mild osteoarthritis in his hips. Known for his love of sports and outdoor activities, Bush maintained a healthy lifestyle, though his medical records also noted the drainage of a long-standing cyst on his finger—a minor blip in an otherwise clean bill of health.
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**Bill Clinton (1993-2001): The Health Transformation**
Clinton’s 1997 exam revealed some hearing loss and a benign cyst, but it was his 2004 quadruple bypass surgery that became a turning point. By 2010, Clinton had adopted a vegan diet, shedding 20 pounds and significantly improving his heart health. His journey from fast food to plant-based eating became a powerful example of lifestyle change.
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**George W. Bush (2001-2009): The Fitness Enthusiast**
Bush’s 2001 physical placed him in the “top 2% of men his age” for cardiovascular fitness. An avid runner and cross-trainer, Bush maintained a rigorous exercise routine, though his love for the occasional cigar and diet soda added a touch of relatability to his otherwise stellar health report.
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**Barack Obama (2009-2017): The Balanced Leader**
Obama’s four physicals during his presidency consistently showed him in excellent health. His doctor noted his healthy vitals, clean lab results, and a regimen that included vitamin D, nicotine gum (to quit smoking), and malaria prevention during international travel. Obama’s focus on balance—both physically and mentally—set a high standard for presidential wellness.
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**Donald Trump (2017-2021): The Controversial Patient**
Trump’s health has been a topic of heated debate. His 2019 exam revealed he was technically overweight, though his doctor declared him “very healthy.” Trump’s cognitive test results and weight fluctuations have fueled speculation, while his team’s selective disclosure of medical information has only added to the intrigue.
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### **The Bigger Picture**
Presidential health exams aren’t just about numbers—they reveal the personal habits, challenges, and even quirks of the nation’s leaders. From Ford’s swimming laps to Clinton’s vegan transformation, these records remind us that even the most powerful people are human, with their own health journeys.
So, what does it take to be “presidentially fit”? It’s not just about passing a physical—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and sometimes, a little help from a White House swimming pool.
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**What do you think?** Should presidential candidates be required to disclose their full medical histories? Let us know in the comments!
*(And if you’re curious about how to melt belly fat or rise to social media stardom, we’ve got you covered—just scroll down!)*
