Martina Navratilova Diagnosed with Throat and Breast Cancer

Martina Navratilova diagnosed with two forms of cancer

18 times grand slam singles champion Martina Navratilova has revealed that she has been diagnosed with both throat and breast cancer. The WTA icon was due to travel to Australia to cover the events and the first Grand Slam of the 2023 season for The Tennis Channel.

However, this now will not happen. Navratilova will still make appearances but they will now be remote instead of in-person. The 66-year-old Czech-American says she will commence treatment in New York later this month. After discovering an enlarged lymph node in her neck in November during the WTA finals in Fort Worth, Navratilova underwent tests. A biopsy revealed that the WTA icon had stage one throat cancer.

Double Whammy

During the tests on the lymph node a lump was also discovered in her breast; this was later diagnosed as unrelated but also cancerous. Getting both at once is double distressing. However, according to Martina Navratilova, both have been caught early.

This is the first time the star has been diagnosed with throat cancer, but not the first time with breast cancer. In 2010 the Czech-American underwent a routine mammogram, which diagnosed cancer. Navratilova had surgery and radiation therapy at the time. The then-53-year-old was given the all clear and was in remission from the cancer.

Speaking to the press about the new diagnoses, the nine-time Wimbledon singles Champion said, “This double whammy is serious but still fixable, I’m hoping for a favorable outcome. It’s going to stink for a while but I’ll fight with all I have got.”

Catching cancer early puts the chances of recovery much higher, but nothing is ever guaranteed with any form of cancer. Checking lumps and enlarged nodes with medical professionals has never proved more vital. Martina Navratilova first spoke about cancer in 2010 as she wanted to help other women suffering from similar problems. However, cancer itself is not gender-based. Men should also check themselves in all areas even the breasts, as everyone and anyone can get the disease.

Early detection and diagnosis are the key. Check yourselves regularly, any unusual lumps or changes seek medical assistance as soon as possible.