, Nov. 8 -- The United States may now deny visa applications from individuals with common health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or obesity under a new directive from President Donald Trump's administration, which broadens the grounds for medical ineligibility.

According to a cable issued Thursday by the State Department and obtained by KFF Health News, consular officers have been instructed to assess a wide range of chronic or high-cost medical conditions - including cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, and mental health disorders - when determining visa eligibility.

The document says the aim is to prevent applicants who could become a "public charge," or financial burden on the government, from entering the country. ...