Statement issued late on Sunday, the Pentagon confirmed that US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been admitted to the critical care unit for treatment related to a bladder issue, as indicated by his medical team.
“Tonight, after a series of tests and evaluations, the secretary was admitted into the critical care unit at Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre for supportive care and close monitoring,” the statement read.
Amid ongoing global challenges, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin’s recent hospitalization has raised questions, particularly in light of previous instances where the 70-year-old chose not to disclose prior hospital stays and delayed informing President Joe Biden of a cancer diagnosis.
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This latest incident, related to treatment for a bladder issue, follows Austin’s earlier absences from the public eye for prostate cancer treatment in December and January. Notably, this time, the public was informed approximately two hours after his hospitalization on Sunday afternoon.
In his absence, Deputy Secretary of Defence Kathleen Hicks has assumed the responsibilities of the defence chief, a transition confirmed by Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder just before 5pm (2200 GMT).
“At this time, it is not clear how long Secretary Austin will remain hospitalised,” added the latest statement, attributed to Dr John Maddox and Dr Gregory Chesnut of the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre in Maryland.
“The current bladder issue is not expected to change his anticipated full recovery. His cancer prognosis remains excellent,” it said.
