Fans react to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's reflections on his prostate cancer as essay resurfaces: “Amen”
Fans sent heartfelt messages to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar recently after his essay detailing the prostate cancer risk faced by black men resurfaced. The Hall of Famer initially posted details about his prostate cancer battle on his website in 2020.
Abdul-Jabbar considers himself fortunate to survive the disease given its high mortality rate among black men. While 12.8% of men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, black men have a 60% chance of dying from it.
Although his post is four years old, fans didn't hesitate to share encouraging words and emojis with Abdul-Jabbar. His supporters called him a hero while celebrating his cancer victory.
Other fans used this opportunity to urge men to have regular prostate exams.
Abdul-Jabbar became one of the greatest basketball players of all time after a storied NCAA and NBA career. The former Lew Alcindor won three college titles at UCLA under John Wooden and six NBA titles for the Bucks and Lakers.
He has battled cancer twice, first being diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia in December 2008. Twelve years later, Abdul Jabbar revealed he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He states early detection saved his life.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar opens up on relationship with 'mentor' Jerry West
During an interview with Sportskeeda's Mark Medina, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was asked how the late Jerry West influenced his career. Kareem explained why he considers West a mentor.
"He was a mentor because he could tell you what you needed to work on without making you feel that he was berating you. When I had issues, I could talk to Jerry.
"He might not agree with me on the issue. But he'd talk to me and then give me a valid reason why we would do it his way. I think that's a step above most general managers. Most don't know guys on the team personally."
Like West did with him, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar keeps finding ways to inspire new generations of fans, both on and off the court.