House Majority Leader Steve Scalise has been diagnosed with a “very treatable blood cancer,” multiple myeloma, and has begun treatment.
The big picture: Steve Scalise, a highly popular Republican politician from Louisiana, was elected in 2008 to represent the 1st Congressional District.
* Scalise began his political career at Louisiana State University and served in the Louisiana state Legislature for 12 years before being elected to the U.S. House.
* Known for his tenure as the chairman of the influential Republican Study Group, Scalise now holds the second-highest ranking position in the House of Representatives.
* Despite his diagnosis, he plans to continue working as majority leader during his treatment.
Medical Overview: The diagnosis came after Scalise underwent blood work due to not feeling well.
* The blood tests revealed irregularities which, after additional tests, resulted in a diagnosis of multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer.
* Treatment has begun and is expected to continue for several months.
Looking back: This is not Scalise’s first health scare, having survived a shooting incident in June 2017 while playing at his regular position on the congressional baseball team.
* The incident led to multiple surgeries and blood transfusions after the bullet from the attack caused severe injuries.
Personal Profile: Scalise, now 51, is married with two children.
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