Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Prostate Cancer: How He Went Against, Survived, and More

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He holds the record for six NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, won six NBA championships, and earned two Finals MVP titles. He is also the third all-time leading rebounder with 17,440 rebounds and ranks third in registered blocks with 3,189.

Beyond his iconic NBA career, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has faced significant health challenges, battling cancer twice. In December 2008, he was first diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Then, in 2020, Abdul-Jabbar revealed that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer approximately 11 years earlier. His personal experience with cancer has not only influenced his health journey but also fueled his advocacy for addressing healthcare inequalities, making him a strong voice for health education and awareness, particularly in the Black community.

How Did Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Get Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s prostate cancer diagnosis was made during a routine screening that revealed elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a crucial early marker for detecting prostate cancer. Despite having no symptoms at the time, the early detection allowed Abdul-Jabbar to begin treatment immediately. His case underscores the importance of regular screenings for men, especially those in high-risk groups like the Black community, which faces significant healthcare disparities.

Abdul-Jabbar has used his platform to raise awareness about prostate cancer screening, particularly advocating for Black men, who are disproportionately affected by both the disease and inequitable healthcare access. He acknowledges that his celebrity status and the fact that two of his sons work in healthcare afforded him access to top-quality care, a luxury not shared by many. These healthcare inequities, further highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, have become a focus of Abdul-Jabbar’s advocacy work.

Symptoms

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar had no symptoms when his prostate cancer was detected. However, common prostate cancer symptoms can include:

• Difficulty urinating, with weak or interrupted urine flow.
• Frequent urination, especially at night.
• Pain or burning sensation during urination.
• Blood in urine or semen.
• Erectile dysfunction.
• Pelvic discomfort or pain.
• Bone pain in areas like the hips, back, or chest if the cancer has spread.

Since early-stage prostate cancer often presents no symptoms, regular screening is crucial for timely detection and treatment.

What Were Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Initial Reactions to His Diagnosis?

Abdul-Jabbar expressed gratitude for the high-quality care he received, which he attributes partly to his fame and having two sons in the healthcare field. However, he also acknowledged that many people in the Black community do not have access to the same level of care. He felt a strong responsibility to use his platform to advocate for those affected by healthcare disparities, stating.

“While I’m grateful for my advantages, I’m acutely aware that many others in the Black community do not have the same options, and that is my responsibility to join with those fighting to change that.”

His reflections aimed to raise awareness about the systemic healthcare challenges faced by African Americans, further highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, which he described as exposing the broader flaws in the healthcare system.

What was the Prognosis?

According to the American Cancer Society and other reputable sources, prostate cancer survival rates vary significantly based on the stage at diagnosis. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s early-stage diagnosis gave him an excellent chance of recovery, with a curability rate as high as 100%.

• Localized Prostate Cancer (Stage I and II): The 5-year survival rate is nearly 100%, meaning almost all men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer can expect to live at least five years post-diagnosis.
• Regional Prostate Cancer (Stage III): The 5-year survival rate remains very high, at approximately 99%. This stage indicates that the cancer has spread to nearby tissues but not distant parts of the body.
• Distant Prostate Cancer (Stage IV): The prognosis is significantly lower at advanced stages. The 5-year survival rate for metastatic prostate cancer is around 28%, as the cancer has spread to distant organs like bones or lymph nodes.
• Overall Survival Rates: For all stages of prostate cancer, the 10-year relative survival rate is about 98%, and the 15-year relative survival rate is approximately 95%.

What Treatments Did Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Undergo?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar underwent surgery and radiation therapy, the two primary treatments for prostate cancer, each with unique approaches and side effects.

Surgery

The standard surgical treatment for prostate cancer is a radical prostatectomy, which involves removing the prostate gland and surrounding tissue to eliminate cancer. This surgery can be performed through open surgery or minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery. The primary goal is to remove the cancer while preserving urinary and sexual function as much as possible. However, prostate surgery can have long-term side effects.

• Urinary Incontinence: 20-30% of patients experience significant urinary incontinence post-surgery, though most see improvements over time.
• Erectile Dysfunction: Approximately 60-70% of men experience some degree of erectile dysfunction, depending on how well nerve preservation is achieved during surgery.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. Common methods include External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) and Brachytherapy (internal radiation). Both approaches are highly effective for localized prostate cancer, with results comparable to surgery. However, side effects can include urinary and bowel issues, erectile dysfunction, and fatigue. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor for any recurrence or long-term side effects.

How Did Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Overcome Prostate Cancer?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s fight against prostate cancer was a tough journey, but with the unwavering support of his family and his dedication to proactive health management, he was able to beat the disease. His experience highlights the importance of early detection, comprehensive treatment, and a solid support system in overcoming prostate cancer.

Support from Family and Friends

During his treatment, Abdul-Jabbar leaned heavily on the support of his family, particularly his son Amir Abdul-Jabbar, who was in medical school at the time. The diagnosis strengthened family bonds and gave Abdul-Jabbar a strong emotional foundation to help him through the difficult journey. Amir, now an orthopedic and spinal surgeon, played a vital role in helping his father understand his diagnosis and treatment, alleviating some of his fears. Abdul-Jabbar emphasized the importance of a support network, noting that staying connected with loved ones was essential to maintaining a positive outlook during cancer treatment.

When Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia in 2008, Amir, then a third-year medical student, helped explain the treatment process to his father. Abdul-Jabbar reflected on how important it was to have a family member with a medical background, saying,

“He was a real great source for me, just that I can talk to him about it. Being a doctor, he understood what was happening, and gave me a realistic viewpoint on it. That means a lot to me.”

Mental and Emotional Challenges

Coping with chronic illnesses such as cancer and managing a heart condition like atrial fibrillation (AFib) posed significant emotional challenges for Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. He openly expressed feelings of vulnerability, particularly after his AFib diagnosis, which he initially dismissed as signs of aging. Realizing that he could no longer perform at the same athletic level as before was a major emotional hurdle for the basketball legend.

Abdul-Jabbar has emphasized the importance of listening to one’s body and seeking medical attention when necessary. His advocacy now focuses on encouraging others to take their health seriously, particularly those in underrepresented communities who may face health disparities. He also stresses the importance of regular health screenings and being aware of symptoms for conditions like AFib, which can significantly increase the risk of stroke if not properly managed.

How Did Advocacy and Public Awareness Help?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has taken an active role in raising prostate cancer awareness and advocating for early detection through various impactful initiatives, including a public service announcement (PSA) with the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF). His willingness to share his personal battle with prostate cancer has helped destigmatize the disease and normalize conversations around it.

• Public Service Announcement (PSA): In June 2021, Abdul-Jabbar partnered with the PCF and NBA Cares to launch a PSA during Men’s Health Awareness Month. This aired during the NBA Playoffs and aimed to increase awareness of prostate cancer screening, especially for Black men, who are disproportionately affected by the disease.
• Personal Disclosure: Abdul-Jabbar publicly shared his prostate cancer diagnosis in a WebMD essay, where he highlighted the healthcare disparities that disproportionately affect the Black community. He used his personal story to advocate for better healthcare access and education.
• Advocacy for Health Equity: As part of his ongoing efforts, Abdul-Jabbar has consistently spoken out about the inequalities in the healthcare system that impact Black Americans. He stresses that while his celebrity status allowed him to receive excellent medical care, many others do not have the same opportunities. Abdul-Jabbar has called for systemic changes to address these disparities, often connecting the issue to broader social justice movements.

Recovery Process and Advocacy

As Abdul-Jabbar continues to recover from a recent hip injury, he remains committed to his advocacy work, educating others on the importance of managing chronic conditions like cancer and AFib. He has partnered with organizations to raise awareness, particularly in Black communities, where conditions like AFib are often underdiagnosed despite a higher risk for complications.

Abdul-Jabbar’s journey showcases the resilience required to navigate serious health challenges. His dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise, and adherence to medical advice demonstrates his determination to overcome these obstacles. Through his combination of personal recovery and public advocacy, Abdul-Jabbar has significantly raised awareness about prostate cancer and offered support to those affected by the disease.

Collaborations with Health Organizations

In his role as a health ambassador for UCLA, Abdul-Jabbar has worked to provide crucial health information to the Black community. His commitment to sharing vital medical knowledge aims to ensure that others have access to potentially life-saving information, much like he did during his own health battles.

Through these collaborations, Abdul-Jabbar continues to raise awareness not only about prostate cancer but also about the broader issues of health equity and access to care for marginalized communities.

What Is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Life Like After Cancer?

After successfully undergoing treatment for various health conditions, including prostate cancer, chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and atrial fibrillation (AFib), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar remains a prominent advocate for health awareness and education. His post-cancer journey has been defined by his commitment to improving healthcare access and encouraging early detection through public outreach.

Advocacy Work

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has partnered with several major health organizations to extend his advocacy efforts:

• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: Partnering with Novartis Oncology, Abdul-Jabbar has helped provide resources and support for individuals living with CML, using his platform to share information about the importance of managing this condition effectively.
• Atrial Fibrillation Awareness: Abdul-Jabbar has been vocal about his experience with AFib and continues to stress the importance of regular health screenings, particularly for the Black community, which faces a higher risk of AFib-related stroke. His work with organizations like Bristol Myers Squibb and Pfizer as part of the No Time to Wait campaign has raised awareness about AFib symptoms and the critical need for early intervention to prevent stroke.

Ongoing Health Challenges

Despite his many advocacy efforts, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has faced his own ongoing health challenges:

• Quadruple Bypass Surgery: In 2015, Abdul-Jabbar experienced dizziness and was briefly hospitalized following a quadruple bypass surgery. Fortunately, tests revealed no complications, and he made a full recovery.
• Hip Surgery in 2023: At age 76, Abdul-Jabbar underwent successful surgery for a broken hip sustained during a concert fall. His recovery is expected to take three months, but even this setback hasn’t slowed his dedication to promoting health awareness.

Balancing Health and Advocacy

While balancing his public advocacy work and managing his personal health can be demanding, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar remains unwavering in his commitment to raising awareness and supporting others. His resilience and determination have cemented his legacy not only as a basketball legend but as a champion of health and wellness.

Even as Abdul-Jabbar continues to navigate the complexities of managing his own health, he remains focused on helping others recognize the importance of early detection, preventive care, and addressing healthcare disparities. His story serves as a powerful reminder that health challenges can be overcome with determination and a commitment to wellness advocacy.

What Causes Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a complex disease driven by a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Understanding these causes is essential for assessing risk, prevention, and developing effective treatment strategies.

Genetic Factors

• Family History: Men with a family history of prostate cancer are at higher risk, especially if close relatives were diagnosed at a young age.
• BRCA1/BRCA2 Mutations: These mutations, commonly associated with breast cancer, also increase the risk of prostate cancer.
• HOXB13 Mutation: Linked to hereditary prostate cancer, this mutation is associated with a higher risk of aggressive disease.
• Lynch Syndrome: A genetic condition that increases the risk of several cancers, including prostate cancer.

Lifestyle Factors

• Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases significantly with age. Around 60% of cases are diagnosed in men over 65, with the incidence rising sharply after age 50.
• Race and Ethnicity: African American men have the highest incidence and mortality rates from prostate cancer, with a 60% higher risk of diagnosis compared to white men. Hispanic men have a lower risk than African American men but similar to white men. Genetic factors and environmental exposures both contribute to this disparity.
• Diet: Diet plays a significant role in prostate cancer risk. Diets high in red meat and dairy products have been linked to an increased risk, while higher consumption of fruits and vegetables, particularly carotenoids like lycopene found in tomatoes, may lower the risk.
• Obesity: While obesity may not increase the overall risk of prostate cancer, it is linked to more aggressive forms of the disease and higher mortality rates. Obese men have a 20% higher risk of aggressive prostate cancer than those with a healthy weight.
• Physical Activity: Regular exercise reduces the risk of aggressive prostate cancer. Studies show that men who engage in moderate to vigorous exercise have a significantly lower risk of developing advanced disease compared to sedentary individuals.

Environmental Factors

Environmental exposures also play a crucial role in prostate cancer risk. Some key factors include:

• Chemical Exposures: Certain occupations, such as firefighting and agriculture, increase risk due to exposure to harmful substances like pesticides and combustion byproducts.
• Tobacco Smoke: Smoking significantly increases prostate cancer mortality. Heavy smokers (25+ cigarettes per day) have an 81% higher risk of dying from prostate cancer, while men who smoked for over 40 years see an increased risk of 38%.
• Occupational Exposures: Occupations such as forestry, social sciences, and police work have been associated with higher rates of prostate cancer. Gasoline station attendants were found to have a four-fold increased risk of high-grade prostate cancer.
• Geographical Variations: The incidence of prostate cancer varies greatly across populations. For example, Japanese Americans have a prostate cancer rate 43 times higher than their counterparts in Japan, illustrating the strong influence of environmental and lifestyle factors post-migration.

How Can Prostate Cancer Be Prevented?

Preventive measures are essential for reducing the risk of prostate cancer and maintaining overall health. Key strategies include regular screenings, lifestyle changes, and dietary adjustments.

Regular Screenings

Health screenings play a crucial role in the early detection of prostate cancer. The American Urological Associationrecommends the following guidelines for prostate cancer screening:

• Who: Men aged 55-69 should discuss screening options with their healthcare provider. Men at higher risk, such as those with a family history or African American men, may need to start screening earlier.
• Tests: The two primary tests are the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test and the Digital Rectal Exam (DRE).
• Frequency: PSA testing is typically recommended every 1-2 years, with DRE as needed.
• Benefits/Risks: Early detection can improve treatment outcomes, but it’s important to consider the risk of false positives and overdiagnosis, which could lead to unnecessary treatments.

Lifestyle Changes

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is key to preventing prostate cancer and other chronic diseases. Here are some critical changes:

• Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week helps reduce the risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer and supports overall health.
• Quitting Smoking: Stopping smoking is one of the most impactful changes individuals can make, reducing cancer risks, including prostate cancer.
• Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, and ensuring adequate sleep can promote mental well-being and lower health risks.
• Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Managing a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise helps prevent several conditions, including diabetes and heart disease, which are linked to increased cancer risk.

Diet

Diet plays a significant role in prostate cancer prevention. Below are some key dietary recommendations:

• Western Diet: A Western diet high in processed foods and red meat is linked to a 4-fold increase in prostate cancer risk (OR = 4.0; 95% CI = 1.5-10.32) compared to healthier eating patterns.
• Mediterranean Diet: Men following a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats have a 47% lower risk of prostate cancer progression compared to those with higher consumption of animal products.
• Saturated Fat: High intake of saturated fats, particularly from animal sources, increases prostate cancer risk by 1.3 to 2.0 times.
• Red Meat: Consuming red meat more than twice per week is associated with a 1.5 to 2.0 times higher risk of prostate cancer compared to those who eat it less frequently.
• Fish Consumption: Eating fish more than three times a week is associated with a 2-fold reduction in the risk of advanced prostate cancer, compared to consuming fish less than twice a month.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Diets high in fruits and vegetables are generally linked to lower prostate cancer risk, though specific nutrients responsible for these protective effects are still being investigated.

Top 10 Interesting Facts About Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

• One Three-Point Shot: Despite being the NBA’s all-time leading scorer (until 2023), Kareem made only one three-pointer in his career.
• Name Change: In 1971, he changed his name from Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr. to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar after converting to Islam, meaning “noble servant of the Almighty.”
• Skyhook Shot: He developed his iconic skyhook shot when the NCAA banned dunking, making it one of the most unstoppable moves in basketball.
• UCLA Champion: Kareem won three NCAA championships with UCLA and was named Most Outstanding Playerthree times.
• Six-Time MVP: He is the only player to win the NBA MVP award six times.
• Movie with Bruce Lee: Abdul-Jabbar starred in “Game of Death” with Bruce Lee, having studied martial arts under him in the 1960s.
• Prolific Author: Kareem is an author and writer on topics like race, politics, and history.
• Presidential Medal: He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Obama in 2016.
• Charity Auction: Kareem auctioned four of his NBA rings in 2019, raising nearly $3 million for his Skyhook Foundation.
• Fitness Pioneer: Practicing yoga and martial arts, Kareem’s year-round conditioning program helped him stay at the top of his game for 20 years

Why Did Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Sell His NBA Championship Rings?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, made headlines not just for his legendary achievements on the court but also for his decision to auction off his NBA championship rings. Over his 20-year career, Abdul-Jabbar won an astounding 6 NBA championship rings:

• 1 ring with the Milwaukee Bucks in 1971.
• 5 rings with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, and 1988.

Beyond those six championships, he also added two more as an assistant coach with the Lakers. However, in 2019, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar decided to auction off four of his six rings and other significant memorabilia. Here’s a deeper look into why he did it and the results of the auction.

The Purpose Behind the Auction

The primary reason for selling his memorabilia wasn’t financial but philanthropic. Abdul-Jabbar wanted to give back in a meaningful way. He directed a substantial portion of the proceeds from the auction to his charitable foundation, the Skyhook Foundation, which focuses on providing educational opportunities in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) for underprivileged children. For Abdul-Jabbar, the rings represented his past achievements, but he felt they could do more good by funding future generations’ education, aligning with his lifelong commitment to giving back.

“When it comes to choosing between storing a championship ring or a trophy in a room or providing kids with an opportunity to change their lives, the choice is pretty simple: sell it all.”

Key Auction Details and Sales

• Date and Items: The auction, held in 2019, featured 234 lots of Abdul-Jabbar’s memorabilia, including four NBA championship rings, MVP trophies, and a game-used basketball from his final game in 1989.
• Total Proceeds: The auction raised an impressive total of $2,947,872.25, which was funneled into programs benefiting underserved youth through the Skyhook Foundation.

Notable Sales

The auction featured many high-value items, with some fetching remarkable prices:

• 1987 Championship Ring: This ring drew the highest bid, selling for $398,937.50.
• Other Championship Rings: The 1985 ring sold for $343,700, while the rings from 1980 and 1988 each fetched $245,500.
• Game-Used Basketball: The ball from Abdul-Jabbar’s final NBA game sold for $270,050, adding a piece of history to the auction.
• MVP Trophies: Three of his MVP trophies sold for over $120,000 each, cementing his legacy as one of the most decorated players in NBA history.

Why This Matters

This auction wasn’t just a reflection of Abdul-Jabbar’s illustrious career but also a testament to his desire to make a lasting impact off the court. His decision to sell such prized possessions highlights his commitment to educational equityand empowering the next generation. Abdul-Jabbar’s generosity continues to inspire, showing that even the most iconic achievements can serve a greater cause.

FAQ

Does Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Still Have Cancer?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has successfully managed his prostate cancer and chronic myeloid leukemia with treatment. While he continues to monitor his health closely, he emphasizes that one is never truly “cancer-free” but can achieve a state where the disease is at a minimal or manageable level.In terms of his current health status, Abdul-Jabbar has reported that his condition is stable and that he continues to be proactive in managing his health. He has expressed optimism and remains engaged in his advocacy work, encouraging others to prioritize their health and get screened.

What Are the Signs of Prostate Cancer?

Early signs of prostate cancer include frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, weak urine stream, blood in urine or semen, erectile dysfunction, and pelvic or lower back pain. Advanced symptoms may include unexplained weight loss, bone pain, and fatigue.

How Did Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Advocacy Impact Prostate Cancer Awareness?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s efforts, including public service announcements and personal disclosures, have highlighted the importance of early detection and the need to address healthcare disparities in marginalized communities, especially the increased risk among Black men.

Can Prostate Cancer Be Completely Cured?

Yes, prostate cancer can be effectively treated, especially when detected early. The five-year survival rate for localized or regional prostate cancer is nearly 100% according to American Cancer Society. Treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, and active surveillance have proven successful in many cases.

What Were Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Initial Reactions to His Diagnosis?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar expressed a sense of gratitude for the quality of care he received. He acknowledged the disparity in healthcare access for many Black Americans and emphasized his responsibility to advocate for change.

How Does Early Detection Improve Prostate Cancer Outcomes?

Early detection of prostate cancer through regular screenings such as PSA tests and digital rectal exams can significantly improve treatment outcomes. When caught early, the cancer is often localized and more manageable, leading to a higher chance of successful treatment.

What Role Did Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Family Play in His Cancer Journey?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s family, particularly his son Amir, who is a medical professional, helped and supported him a lot through his journey. Their support helped him navigate his diagnosis and treatment, providing both emotional support and medical guidance.

How Common Is Prostate Cancer Among Black Men?

Prostate cancer is more common among Black men, who are also at a higher risk of dying from the disease compared to other racial groups. This disparity is attributed to a combination of genetic factors and healthcare access issues, which Abdul-Jabbar has actively addressed in his advocacy work.

What Are the Common Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer?

Treatment options for prostate cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and active surveillance. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences.

How Can Men Reduce Their Risk of Prostate Cancer?

Men can reduce their risk of prostate cancer by maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding smoking, and getting regular health screenings. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with a healthy lifestyle, may help lower the risk.

How can someone support a loved one battling prostate cancer?

Support can include emotional encouragement, helping with daily tasks, accompanying them to medical appointments, and encouraging adherence to treatment plans.

Written by Aharon Tsaturyan, MD