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Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin was admitted to the critical care unit at Walter Reed Military Medical Center due to a bladder issue on Sunday night.

Earlier in the day, after experiencing symptoms indicative of an urgent bladder condition, Austin underwent a series of medical tests and evaluations. The hospital’s medical team decided to admit him for “supportive care and close monitoring” in the critical care unit due to the severity of his symptoms.

Following his admission, the Pentagon announced that Austin had transferred his responsibilities to Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks before 5 PM that same Sunday. Although initially stating that Austin would retain his duties, Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder clarified that Hicks was fully prepared to take over if necessary.

Austin, who is 70 years old and was previously diagnosed with prostate cancer in early December, has faced health challenges recently. Despite the bladder issue, his doctors have stated that his prognosis remains “excellent,” and the recent health concern is not expected to affect his recovery from cancer.

This incident follows a period of controversy surrounding Austin’s health transparency, particularly his hospitalization in early January for an infection related to prostate cancer surgery, which was not promptly communicated to the White House and other key officials. Austin has since apologized for the lack of communication, acknowledging his mistake in not informing the president, his team, and the public about his diagnosis and hospitalization.