Trump's doctor says he's in excellent health - but are US presidents' health checks a PR exercise?

Every modern US president undergoes annual physical exams at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, a practice that serves as much as a political messaging tool as a medical necessity. Presidents use these check-ups to publicly demonstrate their vigor and fitness for office, with results strategically released to the media—as seen recently when Trump's doctor declared him in "excellent health" despite recommending weight loss and more exercise. While there is no legal requirement for presidents to disclose their medical records, the practice has become a distinctly American phenomenon reflecting voters' historical preference for vigorous leaders.