US President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a circulatory condition that makes it difficult for veins to return blood to the heart, the White House said on July 17. The announcement came from Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who addressed recent concerns about swelling in the president’s legs and visible bruising on his hand.
In a memo, Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, the president’s physician, said Trump experienced mild swelling in his lower legs and underwent a full medical evaluation. The diagnosis confirmed the condition, which the doctor described as “benign” and common among individuals over the age of 70. Trump is currently 79.
The health woes of the world's most high-profile leaders are always cause for concern. These are the people who make some of the most important decisions affecting society, and whether it's a president, prime minister, or pope, their well-being is vital in maintaining national policy and public confidence in the office they hold. But just how healthy are some of those currently in charge of countries and states, and what happened to past leaders whose ill health threatened the security and stability of their nations?
Click through this gallery for a worrying diagnosis.