Presidential nominee health secrecy

Much has been made of Senator McCain’s health. But what about the others?

Veteran physician-reporter Lawrence Altman (he’s being analyzing the health of political candidates for 36 years) takes a look at the health of all four presidential and vice-presidential nominees, and notes the secrecy surrounding their medical records:

The limited information provided by the candidates is a striking departure from recent campaigns, in which many candidates and their doctors were more forthcoming.

It makes one yearn for the days of Reagan:

A leading example of openness was Ronald Reagan, whose age, 69, had become an issue in the 1980 election. Mr. Reagan authorized his doctors to be interviewed. He also agreed to an interview himself, against the wishes of his aides, answering all my questions, including what would he do if he became senile as president.

“Resign,” he said.

Fascinating read.