Former world No. 6 Carla Suarez Navarro admitted she was surprised after she was diagnosed with cancer and noted that getting regular check-ups is the key to detecting any possible health issues early. In September 2020, Suarez Navarro announced she was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma.
Fortunately, Suarez Navarro’s battle with cancer went smoothly as she was declared cancer-free the following year and was able to return to the Tour. After returning to action, Suarez Navarro represented Spain at the Tokyo Olympics and the Billie Jean King Cup Finals before she retired from the game at the end of the season.
“I was diagnosed with lymphoma in late 2020 and it was a surprise,” Suarez Navarro said in a video for the WTA’s YouTube channel, per Sportskeeda. “You never expect it but luckily everything went well. As I’ve said many times, you may feel fine or appear to be fine but deep down that’s not the case.
I think getting check-ups, going to the doctor, getting tests done is very important, especially to detect possible future illnesses.”
Suarez Navarro on the WTA teaming up with Hologic
This year, the WTA signed a partnership deal with medical technology company Hologic.
Hologic is primarily focused on women’s health and Suarez Navarro thinks the WTA made the right decision by partnering with the company. “I think it’s a very positive partnership, it’s also very important for female players,” Navarro said.
“I believe they will be more protected. They will also be more aware of the importance of health. I have personally suffered from it, so I’m happy that a company like this wanted to partner with a group of women. Hopefully, as time goes on, women and female players will become more aware of these yearly checks.”
Suarez Navarro, 33, has been fortunate enough to beat cancer and now she is advising everyone not to underestimate the importance of regular check-ups. “The message I would give to everyone about health would be to tell them about the importance of health, visiting the doctor and getting regular check-ups,” Navarro said. “It is very important to detect possible illnesses. Detecting them in time can save many lives.”
