In a recent development, former NBA player Alonzo Mourning revealed that he is now cancer-free after undergoing surgery to remove his prostate. The Hall of Fame center, who was diagnosed with Stage 3 prostate cancer, has since become an advocate for men to prioritize their prostate cancer screenings.

Mourning expressed his concern about the silent nature of the disease, stating, "What scares me about this disease is that there are so many men walking around feeling great and have that cancer in them and they don't know it." With approximately 3.3 million men living with prostate cancer in the United States, Mourning emphasized the importance of getting regular blood tests and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) checks to detect potential risks early on.

Having a family history of prostate cancer, Mourning took proactive steps towards his health in 2021. He began seeing a urologist regularly and underwent PSA testing and cancer screenings. Following concerning test scores, a biopsy conducted in February confirmed his diagnosis of cancer. Fortunately, further testing revealed that the cancer had not spread to other parts of his body.

Realizing the gravity of his situation, Mourning spoke candidly about the significance of regular check-ups, stating, "Unfortunately, as men, we don't like to go to the doctor, but this is the only way to find out what's going on in your body." The basketball star stressed that prostate cancer, along with colon cancer, often go undetected until it is too late, making early screenings essential.

Mourning's successful surgery to remove his prostate in March proved to be a life-saving decision, preventing the potential spread of the disease. Encouraged by his own experience, the NBA great is now urging men to prioritize their health and proactively undergo regular cancer screenings.

As a prominent figure in the basketball community, Mourning's advocacy for prostate cancer screening is expected to raise crucial awareness among men. His journey serves as a reminder that early detection through routine check-ups can lead to successful treatment and a brighter future.

Moving forward, Mourning intends to use his platform to continue sharing his story, highlighting the importance of regular health screenings, and encouraging men to prioritize their well-being. With his inspiring recovery, the NBA legend is determined to make a difference in the fight against prostate cancer.