Victor Davis Hanson, a renowned conservative scholar and Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, has faced a dire medical crisis following a routine cancer surgery. The initial operation took place on December 30, when doctors removed a cancerous lung mucinous adenoma carcinoma along with Hanson's lower right lung lobe.
The surgery, initially deemed successful, quickly gave way to severe complications. Hanson suffered a post-operative aneurysm and bleeding, necessitating an urgent second operation. This emergency procedure, which involved around five blood transfusions, significantly prolonged his time under anesthesia, resulting in low red blood counts, persistent fatigue, and episodes of arterial fibrillation.
Hanson's health ordeal began with symptoms mistaken for routine illnesses. After struggling to recover from a flu in March 2025 and subsequent sinus infections, what was thought to be pneumonia was later diagnosed as a cancerous tumor. The complexity of Hanson's condition lies in the rarity of the lung cancer type, which affects nonsmokers and has a unique genetic mutation profile. Despite negative tests for cancer in lymph nodes, vascular and pleural samples, and a pre-operative PET scan, there remains a 40 percent chance of recurrence.
Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice confirmed Hanson's operation in a January 3 post, expressing continued support for her colleague. Jack Fowler, former National Review publisher, also shared updates on Hanson's condition, revealing the historian's ongoing battle with the illness.
The treatment options for Hanson's specific cancer mutation are limited, with chemotherapy and immunotherapy showing limited effectiveness. Hanson has stated he will conduct a cost-benefit analysis to determine whether to begin these drug regimens, weighing potential benefits against the side effects.
Throughout his recovery, Hanson has maintained transparency with his audience, expressing gratitude for the support and addressing questions about his health. While optimistic about returning to his work and commitments, Hanson acknowledges the uncertainty of his recovery timeline. In the meantime, he plans to continue engaging with his audience on days when his energy permits.
