12 American Presidents with Chronic Illnesses

John F. Kennedy

The 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, had Addison’s disease, a disorder that occurs when the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones. This condition can lead to changes in blood pressure and heart rate, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and fatigue, among many other symptoms.

Reviewed by: 
Review Date: 
December 12, 2013

Last Updated:
July 1, 2014