Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Has Prostate Cancer, Remains Hospitalized At Walter Reed
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center since New Year’s Day due to complications related to a prostate cancer diagnosis he received in December. The news of his condition was not immediately shared with senior Biden administration leaders or top Pentagon officials, sparking questions about the lack of information during a time when the US is involved in multiple global conflicts.
In a letter released on Tuesday, Austin’s doctors stated that his prostate cancer was detected early and his prognosis is excellent. The 70-year-old Secretary of Defense underwent a prostatectomy procedure on December 22, which involves the full or partial removal of the prostate. He returned home the following morning but was readmitted to Walter Reed on January 1, experiencing nausea and severe pain caused by a urinary tract infection.
While at the hospital, Austin was placed in an intensive care unit as doctors addressed the back up of his intestinal contents by draining his stomach through a tube inserted through his nose. The doctors reported that his infection has cleared, and he never lost consciousness during the treatment, which required additional anesthesia.
During Austin’s absence, Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks assumed his responsibilities. However, she was working remotely from Puerto Rico. Austin resumed his duties on Friday evening, as announced by the Pentagon on Monday.
Austin took full responsibility for the delays in notifying senior Biden administration officials and the White House about his hospitalization in a statement last week. The White House was reportedly kept unaware of his condition for three days until White House chief of staff Jeff Zeints informed President Biden on Tuesday morning. As a result, the Biden administration has ordered Cabinet members to promptly inform the White House if they are unable to perform their duties.
Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder, the Pentagon’s press secretary, did not provide details on the timeline or Austin’s reasons for keeping his condition secret. However, a review of the events is currently underway.
Prostate cancer is a deeply personal matter, and it is understandable that Austin wanted to keep it private. However, the lack of immediate communication regarding his hospitalization has raised concerns about transparency in government leadership, particularly in a time of global conflicts. As Austin recovers, it is essential for the Pentagon and the Biden administration to ensure clear and timely communication with the American public and international partners.
With Austin’s prognosis described as excellent, the focus now shifts to his recovery and ability to fulfill his duties as Secretary of Defense. The public will be closely monitoring his progress and hoping for his swift return to full health.
