Push to review McCain's medical records

IF ONE of our older physician colleagues began having significant memory problems or unusual moments of confusion, we would be concerned that these might be early signs of dementia, and would want to make sure that our colleague received a complete medical evaluation so that his or her patients were not in danger.

Over the past year, Senator John McCain has made several mistakes while speaking publicly - for example, forgetting that Czechoslovakia no longer exists, and stating that Pakistan shares a border with Iraq. These may be just normal, momentary lapses. But the fact that they were about subjects McCain knows a great deal about raises the possibility of something more serious.

At 72, McCain would be the oldest first-term US president. While many people in their 70s show no evidence of cognitive decline and are serving with distinction in leadership positions of all kinds, cognitive impairment nevertheless is common in this age group. Given McCain's recent repeated misstatements, and his history of high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which place him at increased risk for developing dementia, his unwillingness to make all of his medical records freely available is worrisome.

At any time, but especially now, when our country faces unparalleled economic, military, and environmental crises, the American people have every right to know whether their next president will be compromised. We expect to know this about physicians, airline pilots, and all military personnel who have access to nuclear weapons. We should expect no less from someone who aspires to be our next commander in chief.

Dr. ERIC CHIVIAN
Assistant clinical professor of psychiatry
Harvard Medical School

Dr. ROGER L. ALBIN
Professor of neurology
University of Michigan

EVERY YEAR our president is expected to undergo a medical exam whose outcome is reported to the public. This is as it should be. Any candidate for the same office should also be required to present a clean bill of health and fitness for the job prior to voters' making their selection.

John McCain is a man who has had four bouts of melanoma. He suffers from war injuries. We as voters have every right to demand that a panel of doctors review his medical records. They do not need to share any details, but must give their complete assessment of his health.

Last spring McCain let a small group of the media spend a mere three hours with his hundreds of pages of medical records. No copies were allowed.

No one should vote without being informed. Are we voting for McCain, or are we more likely voting for Sarah Palin as our next president?

PATRICIA MARSHALL
Wayland