Washington – Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is undergoing treatment for prostate cancer and is currently hospitalized, according to a statement from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The cancer was discovered in early December and Austin underwent a minimally invasive surgical procedure on December 22 called a prostatectomy to treat it. The statement reassured that Austin recovered well from the surgery and returned home the next morning.
However, on New Year’s Day, Austin was readmitted to the hospital due to complications, including severe abdominal, hip, and leg pain. The statement revealed that he was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection. This news comes after it was revealed that the Pentagon faced criticism for not notifying the public about Austin’s hospitalization earlier.
It was only on Tuesday that President Joe Biden learned of Austin’s diagnosis, according to National Security Council spokesman John Kirby. The lack of transparency and communication within the administration raised questions, but Kirby reassured that Biden has complete confidence in Austin and plans to keep him in his position.
The reasons behind Austin not disclosing his diagnosis to Biden are unclear. The situation was described as “deeply personal” by Pentagon spokesman Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder. It is unknown if Austin’s chief of staff, who failed to notify officials about his hospitalization, knew about his condition.
Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in American men, according to the American Cancer Society. However, most men diagnosed with prostate cancer do not die from it, and the death rate has decreased significantly in recent decades.
The Pentagon emphasizes the importance of earning the trust of the American public and vows to work hard to achieve that goal.
In conclusion, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is receiving treatment for prostate cancer and suffered complications that led to his hospitalization. The lack of transparency and delayed communication within the administration raised concerns. However, President Biden has expressed confidence in Austin and intends to keep him in his position. Prostate cancer is a significant health issue for American men, but the mortality rate has decreased over time. The Pentagon is committed to earning the trust of the American public.