Deion Sanders, the Pro Football Hall of Famer and current head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, has recently shared his journey of battling and overcoming an aggressive form of bladder cancer. This announcement followed numerous speculations regarding his health and appearance, giving him the opportunity to communicate an important message. Sanders revealed that he lost 25 pounds and underwent 14 surgical procedures since 2021.
The Diagnosis and Treatment of Bladder Cancer
According to Dr. Janet Kukreja, a urologic oncologist at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Sanders had a "high-grade" tumor that needed to be removed. Dr. Klink explains that bladder cancer occurs when bladder cells multiply uncontrollably, leading to tumors in the organ responsible for storing urine. In some instances, the disease can spread to other parts of the body.
Dr. Klink says that the most common sign of bladder cancer is blood in the urine, which may appear pink, orange, or deep red. Less common symptoms include swelling in the legs or feet, bone pain, and visible lumps or masses in the bladder.
Tobacco use is the most significant risk factor for bladder cancer. According to Dr. Klink, bladder cancer is primarily caused by smoking. Additional risks include occupational chemical exposure for painters, metalworkers, those in the leather industry, miners, and firefighters.
Dr. Klink explains that the initial treatment for bladder cancer involves removing the cancer in a minor surgery without incisions, just inside the bladder. However, when cancer has invaded the muscle wall of the bladder, more extensive treatment becomes necessary. In the past, this involved removing the entire bladder through invasive surgery with a long hospital stay and difficult recovery. But now, the entire bladder can be removed and reconstructed using the da Vinci robot in a minimally invasive manner to aid recovery. Because the bladder must be reconstructed after removal, a piece of the bowels is usually used.
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The prognosis of bladder cancer depends heavily on the progression of the cancer and whether it has spread.
Sanders' Battle and Recovery
Sanders confirmed that he is recovering after a private battle with bladder cancer. He appeared alongside Dr. Janet Kukreja and assistant athletic trainer Lauren Askevold, who has worked with Sanders since his Jackson State days. Sanders opened up about his condition, the treatments he underwent, and the toll it took on his body and spirit.
Sanders revealed that doctors removed his bladder and replaced it with a synthetic one in a successful effort to eliminate the cancerous tumor. Buffaloes assistant athletic trainer Lauren Askevold explained that Sanders was referred to a urologist after a routine CT scan revealed he had a bladder tumor. Sanders said that the bladder removal was his 14th surgery since 2020, the year he began his previous head coaching job, at Jackson State University.
Sanders also shared that he had lost 25 pounds during his battle with cancer, comparing himself to his "Atlanta Falcon Prime" days.
Sanders thanked his medical staff and his oldest son, Deion Sanders Jr., for guiding him through every detail of the process. He also urged people to get checked out if they have symptoms of an illness. Sanders said that if he hadn't been tested for something else, they wouldn't have found the tumor.
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Sanders' bladder has been replaced with a neobladder. He said that battling cancer was not an easy task. Sanders also joked about the new challenges he is facing now that he is cancer-free. He said that he can't pee like he used to and that he may need to use a porta-potty on the sideline.
Despite the jokes, Sanders emphasized the seriousness of the fight and his desire to speak openly in hopes of helping others facing similar challenges.
The Importance of Early Detection and Access to Healthcare
Sanders' journey highlights the importance of early detection and access to healthcare. According to a 2022 report by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), 38% of Americans reported skipping or delaying medical care, with cost being the primary reason. This is a significant increase from previous years, where 27% of those delaying or skipping care cited serious health conditions.
The consequences of postponing or avoiding medical care can be serious, potentially leading to worsened conditions or the need for more intensive and costly treatment later on.
A 2024 report highlights that nearly a third of Americans lack access to primary care. This situation illustrates how many Americans struggle daily without the ability to afford basic healthcare, preventing them from receiving necessary check-ups and medical attention.
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Sanders urged people to get checked out if they have symptoms of an illness, noting that his tumor was discovered during a test for something else.
Sanders' Message of Hope and Resilience
Despite the challenges he has faced, Sanders remains optimistic and determined. At one point during the press conference, Sanders turned to Dr. Kukreja and asked, "We're gonna beat it, ain't we?" Dr. Kukreja replied, "It's beaten," offering a confident nod and a smile.
Sanders has never shied away from adversity, whether on the field or off. He is intent on using his platform to destigmatize illness and normalize hard conversations, something he feels is now part of his purpose.
Sanders' message is one of hope and resilience. He is back in Boulder, back with his team, and back in the fight.
Overcoming Healthcare Barriers
The obstacles encountered by Deion Sanders underscore the importance of tackling the systemic problems that hinder access to healthcare. Financial constraints, inadequate insurance coverage, and a shortage of primary care doctors are significant barriers that prevent many Americans from receiving timely and appropriate medical attention. It is imperative to implement policies that expand healthcare coverage, lower medical expenses, and bolster the primary care workforce to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to prioritize their health and well-being.
Support Systems for Cancer Patients
Deion Sanders emphasized the critical role of his medical staff and family in guiding him through his cancer treatment journey. These support systems are essential for individuals facing cancer diagnoses, providing emotional, practical, and informational assistance. The Cancer Support Community (CSC) at the Lee Health Cancer Institute offers a variety of support groups and wellness programs at no cost for people living with cancer, as well as their caregivers, family members, and survivors. Access to counseling, therapy, and support networks can significantly improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their loved ones.
Promoting Health Awareness
Deion Sanders' openness about his battle with bladder cancer serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of health awareness and regular check-ups. By sharing his personal experiences, he encourages individuals to be proactive about their health, seek medical attention when necessary, and adhere to recommended screening guidelines. Raising awareness about the risk factors, symptoms, and early detection methods for different types of cancer can lead to earlier diagnoses, improved treatment outcomes, and ultimately, save lives.
The Impact on Sanders' Career
Despite the health challenges he has faced, Sanders remains committed to his coaching career. While it may seem somewhat self-centered to hold a press conference just to announce that he will be coaching from the sidelines again this fall, it was nearly overshadowed by the serious topic of being cancer-free. Sanders' determination to continue coaching despite his health issues is a testament to his passion for the game and his commitment to his team.