Biden to get 'routine' physical on eve of 79th birthday

Biden to get 'routine' physical on eve of 79th birthday
Biden to get 'routine' physical on eve of 79th birthday
1 min read
19 November, 2021
His birthday is coming up [Getty]

US President Joe Biden will undergo his first annual physical exam as head of state Friday, the eve of his 79th birthday.

"Later this morning, the president will travel to Walter Reed Medical Center for his routine annual physical," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said in a statement.

Psaki said more details would be provided after Biden arrives at the national military medical center, just outside the US capital.

Any details on Biden's health are sure to be closely watched, given speculation on whether he will stand by his stated intention to seek a second term in 2024.

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The oldest US president in history, Biden pledged before his election a year ago to be "totally transparent" with voters about all aspects of his health.

The White House also said earlier this year that the results of Biden's eventual checkup would be made public.

In a letter released by his election campaign in December 2019, Biden's physician had described him as "a healthy, vigorous, 77-year-old male, who is fit to successfully execute the duties of the presidency."

Biden does not smoke or drink, and prior to his election worked out at least five days per week, according to the letter.

He was vaccinated early on against Covid-19, and received a booster shot in September.