Kamala Harris' doctor gives insight into VP's lifestyle and diet, reveals health update ahead of election

WASHINGTON, DC: Kamala Harris has been declared in “excellent health” according to a letter from her physician, Dr Joshua R Simmons, released before the 2024 election.

The report, intended to provide transparency as Harris seeks the presidency, affirms that the Democratic nominee has the physical and mental capacity to serve as president if elected in November.

Kamala Harris' healthy lifestyle

In the letter, Dr Simmons stated that Kamala Harris "possesses the physical and mental resiliency required to successfully execute the duties of the Presidency, to include those as Chief Executive, Head of State, and Commander in Chief." 

The 59-year-old Democratic presidential nominee engages in “vigorous daily aerobic exercise and core strength training” and follows a “very healthy diet,” according to her doctor.

She is also a non-smoker and consumes alcohol only “occasionally and in moderation.”

While Harris has no significant medical concerns, she does have some manageable conditions.

She is nearsighted, which she corrects with contact lenses, and she experiences allergies and urticaria (hives), both of which are controlled through over-the-counter medications like Allegra and allergen immunotherapy.

Kamala Harris' family history and past surgery

Dr Simmons highlighted a family history of colon cancer on Kamala Harris’ mother’s side, but reassured that the vice president is up-to-date on all relevant screenings, including mammograms and colonoscopies.

The letter also noted that she has no personal history of major conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease.

The only surgery Harris has ever undergone was a laparotomy at the age of three to remove her appendix due to a condition called intussusception, reports Daily Mail.

The report also detailed her current medication, a Vitamin D3 supplement prescribed for skeletal health due to a deficiency found in her bloodwork.

Kamala Harris' health transparency ahead of 2024 election

Kamala Harris’ health report, conducted during her last physical in April 2024, aimed to offer voters confidence as she faces increased scrutiny on the campaign trail.

Dr Simmons, who has been Harris’ primary physician since she took office as Vice President 3.5 years ago, confirmed that her electrocardiogram (ECG) was normal, and her bloodwork results were “unremarkable.”

The release of her health details comes as she competes with former president Donald Trump in the November election.

Trump, who has released limited information about his health in the past, last shared a brief update in November 2023 on President Joe Biden’s birthday.

The letter from the Republican presidential nominee’s doctor stated that the 78-year-old was in “excellent health,” though it lacked supporting details such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, or test results.