Stroke, Seizures, and State of the Union: How Neurologic Ailments of FLOTUS Changed the Course of World Affairs

Author Type(s)

Faculty

Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

4-25-2023

DOI

10.1212/WNL.0000000000203412

Journal Title

Neurology

Department

Neurology

Abstract

Objective:

Describe the impact of stroke and seizure disorders of the First Ladies of the United States (FLOTUS) on the President of the United States (POTUS), and world affairs.

Background:

The FLOTUS has had significant influence on politics and society throughout history. Many First Ladies have been involved with the campaign trail, served as advisors for their husband, and led their own social initiatives. However, many of these influential women were impacted by strokes and seizures. Considering the importance of the FLOTUS in affecting politics and history, a proper examination of the effect of their neurologic conditions on the nation is critical for historians and neurologists alike.

Design/Methods:

An analysis of historical literature was done to determine which First Ladies have suffered from seizure and stroke. The first ten google hits for each FLOTUS were reviewed for evidence of either disorder. An analysis of the scientific literature was then completed using PubMed and Google Scholar to help describe reasonable diagnoses and etiologies. Finally, books and government websites were used to further analyze historical timelines and propose potential ways that their conditions may have impacted national and world politics.

Results:

There have been 54 FLOTUS, 43 official and 11 acting FLOTUS. 10 have had neurologic ailments, six of which have been stroke or seizure. FLOTUS have had both epileptic and nonepileptic seizures and strokes have ranged from middle cerebral artery to internal capsular stroke. Their conditions often affected how they performed as first lady and the public’s impression of the President, which led to substantial changes in the White House and world affairs.

Conclusions:

The neurologic health of the First Ladies had significant effects on American and World History. Their conditions affected White House precedents, decisions made by the President, and expectations of women in society and politics.

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