Deion Sanders: Battling and Beating Bladder Cancer with Bladder Removal Surgery
Boulder, Colo. / July 28, 2025 – University of Colorado head football coach and Hall of Famer Deion Sanders revealed today that he faced an aggressive form of bladder cancer earlier this year—and is now considered cured after undergoing a full robot-assisted bladder removal and reconstruction surgery.(TIME, WESH)
Diagnosis Amid Other Health Concerns
Sanders discovered the cancer during routine follow‑up scans tied to his longstanding vascular issues, including previous surgeries for blood clots and toe amputations. It was a high-risk, non-muscle-invasive tumor—meaning the cancer had not spread to the bladder muscle or elsewhere.(TIME, WRAL.com)
Surgical Treatment and Recovery
Sanders opted for a radical cystectomy: complete bladder removal via robotic laparoscopy. Surgeons reconstructed a new bladder, known as a “neobladder,” from a segment of his intestine. This approach aims to approximate normal bladder function. His medical team reported the surgery was successful, and he is now considered cured.(TIME, fox5atlanta.com)
He spoke candidly about his recovery challenges, including urinary incontinence. “I depend on Depends… I cannot control my bladder,” Sanders said, emphasizing the real-life impact even after a curative procedure.(TIME, NBC Sports)
Personal Reflections and Privacy
Sanders acknowledged keeping the diagnosis private from some of his children so they could stay focused on their athletic careers. He told them it was a foot issue rather than cancer.(ABC Action News Tampa Bay (WFTS), WESH)
During a press conference held with his medical team, Director Dr. Janet Kukreja reassured the public that Sanders is cancer‑free and ready to lead the Colorado Buffaloes this fall.(TIME, WESH)
Messages for Others
In his public remarks, Sanders emphasized the importance of regular medical check‑ups. He urged African American men, in particular, to stay vigilant, saying, “Please get yourself checked out—we don't like going to the doctor.”(ABC Action News Tampa Bay (WFTS), WRAL.com)
His medical team echoed the sentiment: bladder cancer is common, especially in men, and early detection significantly improves outcomes.(WRAL.com, FOX Sports)
Outlook for the Season
Now 57 (turns 58 in August), Sanders plans to return to Boulder and coach his third season with the Buffaloes, who begin fall camp as leaders in the Big 12. He has already returned to campus and posted on social media, “Back and Feeling Great!”(WESH, Reuters)
What to Know: Bladder Cancer Basics
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Bladder cancer is the 10th leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., with nearly 85,000 new cases expected in 2025. Men account for more than two‑thirds of diagnoses.(WRAL.com, FOX Sports)
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Risk factors include smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, older age, and chronic bladder conditions.
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Symptoms often include blood in urine, frequent or painful urination, but early cases can be symptom‑free.(WRAL.com)
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When detected early, and confined to the bladder lining, bladder cancer has 5‑year survival rates between 72% and 97%, but drops sharply if the cancer spreads beyond.(WRAL.com)
In summary: Deion Sanders faced a serious but contained form of bladder cancer. Following surgery and neobladder reconstruction, doctors have declared him cancer‑free. While recovery involves lifestyle changes—like managing incontinence—Sanders remains optimistic and plans to return to coaching this fall. Most importantly, he’s using his experience to inspire others to prioritize their health and screenings.
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