Deion Sanders Reveals He Was Diagnosed With Bladder Cancer

Nationwide — Hall of Fame NFL cornerback and current University of Colorado football coach Deion Sanders has revealed that he was recently diagnosed with bladder cancer, a serious disease that begins in the tissues of the bladder—the organ responsible for storing urine. In a candid press conference, Sanders shared that he underwent a complete removal of his bladder and is now cancer-free, thanks to early detection and aggressive medical intervention. He said the cancer was discovered during a routine vascular scan, one of many that he receives regularly due to previous health complications.

According to NBC Sports, Bladder cancer is most commonly caused by exposure to harmful substances over time, such as tobacco smoke, industrial chemicals, or chronic bladder infections. It tends to occur more frequently in older adults and affects men more than women. Each year, roughly 82,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with bladder cancer, and the disease leads to approximately 17,000 deaths annually. However, when detected early—especially non-muscle-invasive types—the five-year survival rate can be as high as 77%, according to the American Cancer Society.

Since 2021, Sanders has endured 14 surgeries, many tied to circulation issues in his legs that nearly led to amputation. Still, he explained that undergoing bladder removal was among the most difficult procedures he’s faced. During the NFL Draft weekend, he kept the situation private from his sons, telling them it was related to a foot issue to avoid alarming them. His honesty now, however, reflects a renewed mission to advocate for early detection and proactive health care.

Despite the physical and emotional toll of bladder cancer and its treatment, Sanders appeared upbeat and composed during his media appearance. He stressed the importance of taking health seriously and urged the public to get regular checkups: “Get. Checked. Out.” His message emphasized how critical routine screenings can be, even for those who feel healthy, as early detection often makes the difference between life and death.

Sanders also spoke openly about the ongoing challenges he faces, including urinary incontinence—a common side effect for bladder cancer survivors, especially those who have undergone bladder removal. Rather than avoid the topic, he used his platform to destigmatize it: “Let’s stop being ashamed of it, and let’s deal with it. And let’s deal with it head on,” he said. His transparency could be life-changing for others silently battling similar issues.

Now cancer-free, Deion Sanders appears ready to take on a new role: that of a survivor and advocate. His story is not only one of medical triumph but also a reminder that even the most seemingly invincible athletes face deeply human struggles. His openness may help save lives by encouraging more people—especially men, who are less likely to seek medical help—to take their health seriously and speak up when something doesn’t feel right.