by Larrell L. Wilkinson, PHAME-US.com
Dwyane Wade, the celebrated NBA Hall of Famer, recently opened up about his battle with kidney cancer on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. Wade shared that his diagnosis came after he turned 40 and decided to undergo a comprehensive health check-up. With a family history of cancer—his father and grandfather both battled prostate cancer—he wanted to be proactive about his health. In December 2023, Wade underwent a procedure to remove part of his kidney, which was later confirmed to be cancerous.
On the talk show known for its humor and funny comedic bits, Wade shared the importance of knowing your body and getting “checked out” by a doctor. During an emotional appearance on the talk show Jenna & Friends, Mr. Wade shared more regarding his health, challenges, and the symptoms that led him to speak to his doctor who recommended additional tests. He also gave credit to his wife, actress Gabrielle Union, and his children for their support during his recovery.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists the following symptoms for kidney cancer, including:
- Blood in the urine.
- A lump or swelling in the kidney area or abdomen.
- Lower back pain or pain in the side that doesn’t go away.
- Feeling tired often.
- Fever that keeps coming back.
- Not feeling like eating.
- Losing weight for no reason that you know of.
- Something blocking your bowels.
- A general feeling of poor health.
In 2024, the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that 14,390 people (9,450 men and 4,940 women) died from kidney cancer disease in 2024 and approximately 81,610 new cases of kidney cancer were diagnosed (American Cancer Society, n.d.). The CDC recommends several steps to lower the risk of kidney and renal pelvis cancers, including:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a risk factor, so staying active and eating a balanced diet can help.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking increases the risk of kidney cancer, so quitting is highly beneficial.
- Be cautious with certain chemicals: Especially trichloroethylene, which is used in some industrial jobs. Proper safety measures are essential if you’re exposed to it.
To learn more about Dwayne Wade and hear more about his life, perspectives on sports, fashion, music, and business, we can tune into his channel on YouTube, the WY Network. To learn more about kidney cancer, please visit the CDC web presence for kidney cancer and the American Cancer Society (ACS). To raise awareness and encourage others regarding their health journeys, please consider engaging with US on Facebook.
References
American Cancer Society. (n.d.). About Kidney Cancer. http://Www.cancer.org. Retrieved March 11, 2025, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/kidney-cancer/about.html
CDC. (2024, April 25). Kidney Cancer Basics. Kidney Cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/kidney-cancer/about/index.html
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