Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, who is 70 years old, was admitted to the Critical Care Unit at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Sunday due to complications arising from an urgent bladder issue.
This development has raised concerns about Austin’s ability to fulfill his duties as he continues to battle prostate cancer, which was diagnosed in December.
Initially, the Pentagon announced Austin’s hospitalization on Sunday afternoon, stating that he was receiving treatment for symptoms related to a bladder issue.
Despite the seriousness of his condition, the Pentagon confirmed that Austin retained his powers shortly after being admitted.
However, later in the evening, it became apparent that the situation had worsened.
As a result, Deputy Secretary Kathleen Hicks assumed responsibility for Austin’s duties.
Austin’s health has been a matter of controversy and concern since news of his prostate cancer diagnosis came to light.
It should be noted that Austin underwent secret surgery for prostate cancer on December 22.
Due to severe illness caused by an infection and intestinal issues requiring stomach drainage through a tube, he had to undergo general anesthesia for the operation.
Following complications from the surgery, he was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on January 1.
The Pentagon revealed that Austin did not inform President Joe Biden or Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks about the medical procedure.
Austin kept his condition hidden from almost everyone until early January, including President Biden himself.
This secrecy is particularly concerning considering ongoing conflicts involving U.S. forces in the Middle East and Europe as well as tensions in the South China Sea.
On Sunday evening, Dr. John Maddox (Trauma Medical Director) and Dr. Gregory Chesnut (from Murtha Cancer Center at Walter Reed) provided an update on Secretary Austin’s condition.
They stated that following tests and evaluations, it was deemed necessary for him to be admitted into the critical care unit (CCU) for comprehensive care and monitoring.
Here is the statement from Walter Reed:
Statement From Walter Reed Military Medical Center Officials on Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s Health Status
Dr. John Maddox, Trauma Medical Director, and Dr. Gregory Chesnut, Center for Prostate Disease Research of the Murtha Cancer Center Director, at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, provided the following statement regarding Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s health status:
Earlier today, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III was transported by his security detail to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to be seen for symptoms suggesting an emergent bladder issue. Tonight, after a series of tests and evaluations, the Secretary was admitted into the critical care unit at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for supportive care and close monitoring.
At this time, it is not clear how long Secretary Austin will remain hospitalized. The current bladder issue is not expected to change his anticipated full recovery. His cancer prognosis remains excellent. Updates on the Secretary’s condition will be provided as soon as possible.
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