Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has been diagnosed with labyrinthitis, a condition affecting the inner ear that often leads to vertigo, in what is the latest in a series of health concerns for the 79-year-old leader.
The presidency announced that Lula underwent medical evaluation at a hospital in Brasília on Monday before returning to his official residence to rest, as advised by doctors.
This diagnosis follows a number of recent health challenges for the veteran politician. In 2023, Lula underwent hip replacement surgery, and in 2011 he received chemotherapy and radiotherapy for throat cancer. He has also been treated for high blood pressure.
One of the most serious incidents occurred in 2024, when a fall in the bathroom of his presidential residence caused a concussion and a cranial haemorrhage, requiring surgery and several stitches.
Despite these issues, Lula made a swift recovery and resumed a demanding schedule, travelling to several key nations including China, Russia, Vietnam, and Japan.
According to a source from the presidency, speaking on condition of anonymity, Lula has now “cancelled part of his schedule” due to the discomfort caused by the current episode.
His recurring health problems have sparked debate about whether he is in the right physical condition to run for re-election in next year’s presidential contest. Lula previously served two terms as Brazil’s president between 2003 and 2010, and returned to office in 2023 after defeating Jair Bolsonaro in a closely contested vote.
