[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1991, Book I)]
[May 28, 1991]
[Page 574]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on the President's Health
May 28, 1991

    Because of the remarkable coincidence of the President and First 
Lady both having Graves' disease, the President's physician is exploring 
any possible link to environmental or other causes. While the doctors 
feel it is highly unlikely that their thyroid condition could be 
related, or in any way related to the lupus disease suffered by Millie, 
prudence dictates that all such possibilities be examined.
    The Secret Service is taking water samples at Camp David, the Vice 
President's residence, the White House and Walker's Point to ascertain 
any possible presence of iodine or lithium, two substances which have 
been associated with thyroid disease. In addition, Dr. Charles L. 
Christian, head of medicine at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New 
York, has been asked to review the medical history of the First Family, 
including Millie, to ensure that there is no relationship in any way. 
These tests and reviews will be made over the next few weeks. We do not 
expect conclusions for some time.