Over the last couple of decades, heart problems have become an increasing threat to human bodies and even athletes in top physical shape and condition are not beyond its reach. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar found that out a few years ago when he was diagnosed with Atrial fibrillation, more commonly known as Afib. To combat the condition and raise awareness over the various heart conditions, the former NBA champion teamed up with Pfizer.
In a recently shared video on social media via Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Instagram account, the Lakers legend sent a message to raise awareness about heart issues. “As a former professional athlete, I understand the importance of taking care of my body. So, I was shocked when I was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (Afib), which can increase the risk of stroke by about 5 times,” the caption read.
Back in 2020, Kareem first started experiencing the symptoms of Afib. He told People, “I was having irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath and had no energy or stamina. I couldn’t walk more than 30 yards without having to sit down and rest to catch my breath.”
During a game of Los Angeles Dodgers, Jabbar collapsed to the floor and was taken to hospital where the diagnosis surfaced. In February this month, Kareem was featured in an ad campaign with BMS-Pfizer titled, “No Time To Wait” to raise awareness over Afib symptoms. The recent video was also a part of the former hooper’s endeavor. But Kareem Abdul-Jabbar wasn’t the only one suffering from heart issues, as diseases don’t pick targets according to age.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Not the Only Athlete to Have Heart Issues
During July last year, LeBron James’ son, Bronny James, suffered a cardiac arrest during a practice session with USC. The guard was rushed to hospital and made a recovery after weeks of thorough medical care.
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Bronny had “anatomically and functionally significant congenital heart defect which can and will be treated,” said a family spokesperson. Now almost after a year, Bronny is fully fit and was medically cleared to participate in the NBA Draft combine, in which he performed better than expected.
The Celtics legend Larry Brid and the Lakers hero Jerry West are also notable athletes with a history of cardiac problems. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s campaign with Pfizer is aimed at an increase in awareness and the preventive measures that can be taken with early detection of symptoms.
Also Read: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Explains Why He Has ‘No Relationship’ With LeBron James
