NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was able to play 20 long seasons in the league thanks to his fitness and health. His longevity helped the Los Angeles Lakers legend break and set many All-Time records. At 75, Abdul-Jabbar spent most of his life playing basketball. So when he found it hard to keep up with his son during an overseas vacation, he was shocked. However, the six-time NBA champion dismissed the symptom. After the vacation and back to the country, Abdul-Jabbar was in attendance for a recent Los Angeles Dodgers game.

He felt very weak and lightheaded and then reportedly collapsed during the game and was taken to a hospital. The doctors then diagnosed him with atrial fibrillation, a critical heart condition that could be dangerous if left untreated.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar wants to raise awareness

Atrial fibrillation is most common among older adults and could lead to different heart-related complications including stroke, heart failure, etc. The most common symptoms of the disease include fatigue and dizziness. Also, some other symptoms are a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, chest pain, etc. As per reports, the condition could also affect an individual’s mood. Since the symptoms could be very easily overlooked at first, it is necessary to consult a doctor. Otherwise, it could be dangerous.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar recently talked about the issue during an interview with AARP. “I want anybody that’s paying attention to me to understand that they need to go get those symptoms checked out. Don’t just assume that it’s a minor issue. It could be a major issue; it could threaten your life,” Abdul-Jabbar says. “This is nothing to play around with. Find out what’s going on in your body, and you will be doing yourself a favor.”

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Ever since Abdul-Jabbar was diagnosed with the condition he has been working with his doctor to manage it. Furthermore, the six-time NBA MVP is raising awareness about recognizing the symptoms. After the incident during the Los Angeles Dodgers game, he opened up about it via his website.

Atrial fibrillation

The report from AARP also states some lifestyle changes that could also be prescribed for atrial fibrillation. It states that exercising regularly, losing or managing weight, treating chronic conditions, etc could help manage the condition. Also, not consuming tobacco and alcohol would be of help as well.

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According to reports, 9.5 million people suffer from the condition in 2023. Furthermore, it is projected to likely cross over 12 million by 2030. So Kareem Abdul-Jabbar wants to spread awareness about it so that it could be useful when an individual faces these symptoms.