Expert warns Donald Trump may be at risk of serious condition linked to weight loss in older men

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump’s noticeably leaner appearance has kicked off fresh speculation about his health, with recent photos fueling questions and warnings from medical professionals.

Snapped earlier this month as he prepared to board Marine One, the president, now 78, appeared visibly slimmer, prompting supporters to praise his "fit new look." But health experts aren’t clapping just yet. 

Donald Trump’s dramatic weight loss raises eyebrows as doctor warns of possible health risks

In an interview with the Irish Star, Dr Daniel Atkinson of Treated.com urged caution, suggesting that this kind of rapid weight loss in someone of Trump’s age could signal something more serious.

“For a hypothetical person, who has taken on the office of President of the United States for a second term, at the age of 80, there might be several factors that could affect their weight,” Atkinson explained.

“An almost 80-year-old with a busy schedule might be more susceptible to certain conditions that can cause weight loss. Diabetes, for instance, can trigger weight fluctuations when the condition is uncontrolled. Blood sugar can become more difficult to regulate as we age, and insulin resistance can develop with age,” he added.

He added that with age, the body’s ability to regulate insulin and maintain a stable metabolism weakens, potentially leading to sudden physical changes that aren’t just cosmetic.

There’s been no statement from Trump’s team or the White House regarding his recent physical transformation. Without context, photos of bruises on his hands earlier this year, combined with this new slimmer figure, have led many to wonder what’s really going on behind the scenes. 

Following a nearly five-hour physical exam at Walter Reed Army Medical Center on Friday, April 11, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that he “aced” a cognitive test taken as part of his annual health checkup.

“I think I did well,” he said, before adding, “I think they're releasing a report on Sunday, the doctors, highly respected doctors. Great place, amazing place. I wanted to be a little different, I took a cognitive test and I don't know what to tell you other than I got every answer right.”

Pressed on which test it was, the 78-year-old president didn’t have specifics, replying, “A very well-known one. I was there for a long time. I think I did very well.”

He said the doctors gave him “a little bit” of lifestyle advice.

Donald Trump broke silence on health concerns previously

The 78-year-old president took to Truth Social following a high-profile meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on April 7. 

“I am pleased to report that my long scheduled Annual Physical Examination will be done at Walter Reed Army Medical Center on Friday of this week,” Trump wrote. “I have never felt better, but nevertheless, these things must be done!”

The brief message was Trump’s first public comment amid a wave of concern over his physical state, which has recently included online chatter about bruises on his hand, slurred speech in a few speeches.