Doctors Warn Donald Trump's Excess Fat Around His Organs Could Lead To Premature Death After Major Weight Gain

Donald Trump's waistline has become an unexpected source of concern for doctors after the president reportedly gained more than 20 pounds (9.07 kg) in recent years, with medical experts warning that excess body fat can increase the risk of serious illness, disability and premature death.

While the White House says Trump remains in excellent health, outside physicians have urged greater attention to his weight, particularly because of his age and other reported health issues.

Trump's Weight Gain Has Put His Health Under Scrutiny

A medical examination released by the White House in May found that the president weighed 238 pounds (108 kg), up from 224 pounds (102 kg) during his previous annual examination. His 2023 booking record listed him at 215 pounds (98kg), although questions have been raised about the origin and accuracy of that earlier figure.

At 6ft 3in (190.5 cm), Trump's reported BMI was 29.7, only 1.6 pounds (0.7kg) below the standard threshold of 30 used to classify obesity.

The White House medical team nevertheless described him as being in excellent health, saying his cardiac, pulmonary, neurological and overall physical function were strong. His cognitive screening also produced a perfect score of 30 out of 30.

Scott Kahan, director of the National Center for Weight and Wellness and a George Washington University physician, warned that obesity is associated with numerous health problems and increased risks of premature disability and death.

He argued that addressing Trump's weight should be treated as an important part of protecting the president's health.

Doctors Warn About Fat Around Vital Organs

David Kessler, who previously headed the US Food and Drug Administration, expressed particular concern about visceral adiposity, which refers to fat stored deep inside the abdomen around organs such as the liver, pancreas and heart.

'That fat around the midsection, that visceral adiposity, is fat around our liver, pancreas, our heart where it doesn't belong,' Kessler said, according to the report discussed on the podcast.

The podcast presenter seized on that warning, describing the medical concerns as a sign that Trump could be 'on borrowed time'.

Other doctors have also cautioned against judging an older person's health solely by BMI. Gitanjali Srivastava, an obesity specialist, said body composition, function and overall health can be more informative than a single number, particularly in older adults.

Trump Has Been Told To Lose Weight

His May medical report recommended increased physical activity, dietary improvements and continued weight loss. The president has also spoken publicly about his reluctance to gain more weight, even joking that he does not want to surpass former president William Howard Taft, who weighed more than 300 pounds (136 kg).

Trump has long been known for his fondness for fast food, particularly McDonald's, while his exercise routine has often centred around golf rather than intensive workouts. The Washington Post reported that White House physicians have encouraged him to improve his diet and maintain physical activity.

The issue has become particularly striking because Trump has frequently mocked other people's weight throughout his political career. The podcast highlighted several of his past comments, while noting the irony of the president now facing medical scrutiny over the same issue.

Trump himself has dismissed concerns at times. In May, he said, 'I feel great', while his White House has repeatedly emphasised his energy and demanding schedule.