Retired NBA star Dwyane Wade is not just known for his impressive career on the basketball court; he’s also now raising awareness about the importance of regular health checkups following his unexpected diagnosis of kidney cancer. During the January 30, 2025 episode of his podcast, "The Why With Dwyane Wade," the 43-year-old revealed the shocking diagnosis he received after undergoing surgery to remove 40% of his right kidney.
Wade's diagnosis came as something of surprise. Until recently, he had not prioritized medical appointments since retiring from the NBA in 2019. His decision to see doctors stemmed from his father's surgery, prompting him to undergo a full-body scan for preventive reasons. "I didn’t go in for my kidneys," Wade explained. "But because I did the full-body scan, they saw something." The something turned out to be cancerous tumor, leading to his surgery on December 18, 2023.
Reflecting on this life-altering moment, Wade admitted the ordeal made him confront his own mortality. "I think it was the first time my family, my dad, my kids -- they saw me weak," he confessed. This moment was one of the most vulnerable he has ever felt, highlighting how even highly accomplished individuals can face serious health challenges.
The former Miami Heat player noted the emotional strain this experience placed on him and his family. Fortunately, as he navigated through treatment, Wade was supported by his loved ones. "Fortunately for me, my family got in, they jumped in," Wade asserted. "What I saw in the midst of my illness was my family... show up for me and be there for me." It is undoubtedly difficult when one's family sees them at their lowest, but for Wade, it helped forge stronger familial bonds.
Medical practitioners have been closely observing changes and trends around kidney cancer diagnoses. Dr. Bradley Leibovich of the Mayo Clinic indicated the unique nature of Wade's diagnosis. "The symptoms he described aren't symptoms of kidney cancer," he stated. This reflects the reality for many patients today, where kidney tumors often go unnoticed until incidentally found during imaging for other health concerns. Dr. Wesley Yip from City of Hope remarked, "Usually, patients had larger tumors...But more and more, we're finding masses in younger people, oftentimes when they are scanned for other reasons."
Wade was fortunate enough to undergo what is known as partial nephrectomy—a widely used surgical procedure for kidney tumors—which can now often be performed using robotic-assisted techniques. These methods have led to reduced recovery times and minimal pain for patients. "When we do [robotic-assisted laparoscopic] approaches, patients are often...in the hospital just one night and typically don’t need anything more than Tylenol to get over the pain," Dr. Leibovich explained.
The overall prognosis for patients like Wade is positive. Early-stage kidney cancer cases can often be successfully treated, allowing patients to lead normal lives post-surgery. Dr. Leibovich emphasized, "When we find these tumors by accident, the expectation is most of the time, people are going to live a normal lifespan." This also applies to Wade, who, along with his family, has been working through the realities of recovery and future health management.
Post-treatment evaluations are also necessary. The frequency of follow-up imaging can depend significantly on tumor characteristics, with the most significant risk of recurrence typically occurring during the first five years post-surgery. Close monitoring can help maintain health and quality of life, which are outcomes many kidney cancer patients now expect with recent advancements.
Wade's situation is part of a broader trend of increased kidney cancer diagnoses, particularly among younger individuals. With more incidental findings thanks to advanced imaging technology, awareness around symptoms and preventative care becomes even more imperative. Wade's story serves as both caution and encouragement, inspiring others to prioritize their health, especially after career changes.
For Wade, this experience has redefined his approach to health and family. The NBA star's time dealing with cancer has been taxing both emotionally and physically, but it has also highlighted the importance of vigilance in health, both for himself and for others. His message resonates: health shouldn't be overlooked, and the support of family can forge incredible strength during life's toughest battles.