Lloyd Austin in Hospital for Intensive Monitoring, Doctor Reports
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was rushed back to the hospital on Sunday afternoon for a possible bladder problem, according to a Pentagon spokesperson.
"At around 4:55 pm today, Secretary Austin handed over his duties to Deputy Secretary Kathleen Hicks," said Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon's press secretary. "The Deputy Secretary will take over while Secretary Austin receives medical care. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the White House, and Congress have been informed."
Later that night, Austin's doctors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center announced that he had been moved to the critical care unit.
"Earlier today, Secretary Austin was taken to Walter Reed for symptoms of a serious bladder issue," their statement read. "After tests and evaluations, he was admitted to the critical care unit for observation and treatment."
It's unclear how long Austin will stay in the hospital, but his doctors believe he will fully recover from the bladder issue. They also confirmed that his cancer prognosis remains positive.
Austin underwent surgery for prostate cancer in December, which led to complications and another hospitalization in January. His decision to keep his diagnosis private until recently sparked criticism, but he has since apologized for the lapse in communication.
President Joe Biden expressed disappointment in Austin's delay in informing him of his hospitalization but maintains confidence in his leadership. An internal review and investigation by the Defense Department inspector general are ongoing. 🏥💼🔍
