US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has been hospitalised due to a urinary tract infection following a surgical procedure for prostate cancer, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center revealed.
The Pentagon faced criticism for its secrecy around Austin's hospitalisation, leaving even President Joe Biden unaware for days.
Austin, 70, underwent treatment for prostate cancer on December 22, which led to complications causing severe abdominal, hip, and leg pain, alongside nausea. He was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection, and subsequently moved to intensive care on January 2 due to abdominal fluid collections affecting his intestines' function.
The medical team at Walter Reed remains optimistic about Austin's recovery but acknowledges it could be a slow process. While the infection has cleared, he faces challenging recuperation.
Austin never lost consciousness or underwent general anaesthesia during his stay.
The urgency of Austin's role in national security poses a challenge; being readily available for crucial communications in a potential crisis becomes difficult while in an ICU.
The disclosure of Austin's hospitalisation raised concerns over the administration's transparency. President Biden, unaware until January 4, faced scrutiny over not being informed promptly.
Additionally, the revelation that Biden was unaware of Austin's initial December treatment for what was termed an elective procedure stirred confusion, especially concerning prostate cancer treatment being labelled as such.
Calls for Austin's removal from his position by some prominent Republicans, including Donald Trump, emerged, but both the Pentagon and the White House emphasised Austin's commitment to his role, with no plans for resignation or removal.
Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder affirmed Austin's focus on recovery while carrying out his duties as Defence Secretary, underscoring his dedication to national defence.
The medical statement signed by Dr John Maddox and Dr Gregory Chesnut detailed the complications Austin faced post-surgery, shedding light on the severity of his condition.
As Austin remains at Walter Reed, the Pentagon navigates the fallout of delayed disclosures while reassuring the public of his dedication to his role despite his health challenges.
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