Defense Secretary Austin Treated for Prostate Cancer, Later Hospitalized for Infection and Complications
• Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was treated for early-stage prostate cancer in December. He had a minimally invasive procedure and has an "excellent" prognosis.
• Austin was hospitalized on January 1st for complications including nausea and severe pain. He was found to have a urinary tract infection.
• The Pentagon did not initially disclose Austin's prostate cancer diagnosis or hospitalization. This raised questions about transparency.
• Pentagon spokesperson said the cancer and procedures were "deeply personal" but committed to more transparency.
• Austin has remained "actively engaged" in his duties while recovering. His travel plans are unclear.