From Fortune Magazine:

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has recently battled both prostate cancer and a urinary tract infection post-surgery. He was secretive about his hospitalization which, with his cancer announcement, has raised questions on the transparency of the Defense Department.

Austin’s prostate cancer was detected early, and his prognosis is good. His surgery and treatment was done secretly at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center without informing President Joe Biden for days.

The Pentagon’s failure to be forthcoming about Austin’s health issues led to criticism from lawmakers. The Department is now undergoing a review to ensure that all leaders are immediately informed of any transfers of authority by the defense secretary.

In the wake of Health Secretary Lloyd Austin’s surprise illness, the Biden administration is also reviewing policies to ensure proper protocols are in place in case of incapacitation of top officials. Cabinet secretaries were directed to communicate delegation of authority procedures to the White House.



Read more: Defense Secretary Austin was treated for prostate cancer and a urinary tract infection, doctors say