Leon Harris, a prominent anchor for NBC News, has announced that he is taking a leave of absence from his on-air duties due to health concerns. This decision follows an incident where he slurred his speech during a live broadcast on August 12, 2023.

During the evening newscast, Harris began slurring his words while reading a report on the latest developments in the Ukraine war. Viewers noticed the unusual tone and manner of his speech and expressed concern through calls and social media messages to the network.

Harris was promptly taken off the air and underwent a comprehensive medical evaluation. The results revealed that he had experienced a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which is a temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain. TIAs are often considered a warning sign of a potential stroke.

Harris has been placed on medication to manage his blood pressure and cholesterol levels. He is also undergoing speech therapy to improve his speech clarity. The anchor is expected to make a full recovery, but the network has advised him to take a break from his duties to focus on his health.

Harris's colleagues and the network have expressed their support and respect for his decision. In a statement released by NBC, the network said, "Leon is a valued member of our team, and we support his decision to prioritize his health. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to his return."

Harris's absence will undoubtedly impact the evening news broadcasts on NBC. He has been a fixture on the network for over 15 years and has established himself as a trusted and reliable news anchor. The network is expected to announce a temporary replacement for Harris while he is away.

Harris's experience highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of TIAs and seeking prompt medical attention. TIAs can serve as a warning sign for potential strokes, which are the leading cause of death in the United States.

Symptoms of a TIA include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness in one arm, leg, or side of the face
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Temporary vision loss in one eye
• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
• Severe headache

NBC Anchor Leon Harris's decision to step away from his on-air duties due to health concerns serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing one's well-being. The network has expressed its support for Harris, and viewers are eagerly awaiting his return. In the meantime, the incident underscores the need for awareness of TIAs and stroke prevention measures.

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