Kamala Harris releases her medical report 3 weeks before US presidential election

Democratic presidential nominee and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris released a letter from her doctor on Saturday, October 12, just weeks before the U.S. presidential election. The medical report confirmed that Harris is in good health and fit for office, aiming to contrast her health status with her Republican opponent, Donald Trump.

According to a memo from the White House, Harris's physician, Joshua Simmons, stated that her most recent physical exam in April showed no significant issues. He noted that she leads an active lifestyle, follows a healthy diet despite a busy schedule, experiences seasonal allergies and occasional hives, does not smoke, and drinks alcohol in moderation.

"She has the physical and mental resilience necessary to effectively fulfill the duties of the Presidency, including as Chief Executive, Head of State, and Commander in Chief," Simmons wrote. At 59, Harris is running against the 78-year-old Trump. Her campaign made her medical records public to draw attention to Trump's reluctance to release his own, according to an aide.

The campaign is keen to emphasize Trump’s age, as he became the oldest candidate in the race after President Joe Biden, 81, withdrew following a poor debate performance against Trump. Harris's team hopes that highlighting her relative youth, mental sharpness, and transparency, compared to Trump’s age and lack of disclosure, will sway undecided voters in her favor.

Simmons also noted that Harris's allergies have been effectively managed with over-the-counter and prescription medications. Her sporadic hives respond well to antihistamines and are not linked to any specific triggers. She has been undergoing allergen immunotherapy for three years, significantly improving her symptoms.

The report revealed that Harris wears contact lenses, and while her family has a history of colon cancer, she is up to date on preventive screenings, including colonoscopy and annual mammograms.