Wed Nov 27 14:52:21 UTC 2024: ## NASA Debunks Health Concerns Surrounding Astronauts Aboard ISS
**Houston, TX** – NASA has dismissed recent media reports expressing concern over the health of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Reports in outlets like The New York Post and The Daily Mail speculated about weight loss and health issues based on photographs and anecdotal evidence.
NASA’s chief health and medical officer, Dr. J.D. Polk, firmly stated that both astronauts are in excellent health and doing well. He attributed apparent changes in their appearance, specifically Williams’ perceived gauntness, to the normal fluid shifts experienced in microgravity. In a microgravity environment, fluids shift upwards, initially causing facial swelling, and then, as the body adapts, resulting in a reduction of facial fullness.
Dr. Polk emphasized that while fluid shifts can affect astronauts’ appearance, neither Williams nor Wilmore have experienced significant weight loss. He cited regular exercise regimes – an hour of aerobic and an hour of strength training daily – and weekly medical checkups as key components of maintaining astronaut health. The astronauts also have access to an IP phone for immediate medical consultation.
The reports also mistakenly referred to Williams and Wilmore as “stranded.” While their return to Earth was initially delayed due to issues with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft, a return plan is in place, with their departure scheduled for February 2025 aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule. NASA assures ample supplies are available on the ISS to support all astronauts until then.
Dr. Polk concluded by highlighting NASA’s robust health monitoring system and the agency’s impressive track record of astronaut health management, stating that in 65 years of human spaceflight, no astronaut has ever had to be returned to Earth due to a medical issue.
First Piper 