Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Undergoing Cancer Treatment: What Happened?

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is currently receiving treatment for prostate cancer and is experiencing complications that led to his hospitalization on New Year's Day, according to a statement from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center released on Tuesday.

The statement disclosed that the cancer was detected in early December, leading Austin to undergo a "minimally invasive surgical procedure" called a prostatectomy on December 22 to address the cancer, according to CNN.

The surgery was successful, and Austin returned home the following day. The statement emphasized that the cancer was detected early, and his prognosis was reported as excellent.

However, on January 1, Austin was readmitted to the hospital due to complications, including severe abdominal, hip, and leg pain accompanied by nausea.

Further examination revealed a urinary tract infection.

The delayed revelation of Austin's hospitalization raised questions about transparency and truthfulness within the Defense Department, as key leaders, including President Joe Biden and senior national security officials, were reportedly unaware of the situation until three days after his admission.

Concerns About Truthfulness on Lloyd Austin Health

The Defense Department initially characterized Austin's hospitalization as a "minor elective medical procedure," not disclosing the prostate surgery details, AP reports.

The choice of wording drew attention and criticism regarding the transparency of the department.

Pentagon press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder defended the language, stating it was developed in consultation with Austin's doctors. However, concerns persist about the delays in public notification.

Ryder acknowledged the deeply personal nature of discussions about prostate cancer but did not provide clarity on how Austin's health would impact his duties, travel, or public engagements.

Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks is expected to assume some day-to-day responsibilities during Austin's recovery.

Despite speaking with President Biden on Saturday, Austin did not inform him about the cancer diagnosis.

In a public statement issued the same day, Austin acknowledged the shortcomings in keeping the public informed about his hospitalization but did not disclose the cancer diagnosis during the conversation with the president.

Calls for Transparency and Congressional Action

The lack of transparency triggered calls for Lloyd Austin's resignation or firing, per CBS News.

Republican Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio expressed concern over losing track of the secretary of defense and criticized the White House and Department of Defense leadership.

Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi suggested a hearing on the matter, and Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island emphasized the need for improved disclosure practices.

President Biden has expressed full confidence in Austin, and the White House is reviewing notification processes for Cabinet secretaries falling ill.

White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients outlined interim procedures in a memo to Cabinet secretaries, emphasizing the need for timely notification in specific circumstances such as hospitalization or travel to areas with limited communication access.

As the Pentagon addresses concerns surrounding Austin's health and the transparency of information, ongoing reviews, and potential congressional hearings may shed more light on the situation.

President Biden remains supportive of Lloyd Austin despite the calls for increased accountability and transparency within the Defense Department.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: BREAKING: Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin diagnosed with prostate cancer - From MSNBC