06 June 2004	Sunday	17 Rabi-us-Saani 1425

PARIS, June 5: Former US President Ronald Reagan's health is deteriorating and he could have only weeks to live, a US source close to the situation said on Saturday.

"I was told it could be soon - it could be weeks, it could be months," the source said. Mr Reagan, now 93, has long suffered from the brain-wasting Alzheimer's disease.

The source said Mr Reagan's condition had worsened in the past week. "The time is getting close," he said, but added: "It is not like it is going to be tomorrow." The source had not spoken to Mr Reagan's family, who have kept him out of sight of all but his closest relatives and helpers, but obtained the information elsewhere.

The White House has been told about Mr Reagan's deteriorating condition, but officials have declined to comment.

Joanne Drake, the former president's chief of staff, said in a statement: "He is 93 years old. He has had Alzheimer's disease for 10 years. There are plenty of rumours. When there is something significant to report, I will do so."-Reuters