Alex Singleton cancer diagnosis revealed after random drug test

Alex Singleton, linebacker for the Denver Broncos, shared he found out he had cancer after a random drug screening last month.

The NFL player said on his X account that though he and his family are still awaiting additional test results, "we believe the cancer was caught early with a great prognosis." 

What type of cancer does Alex Singleton have? 

Singleton said that he was diagnosed with testicular cancer and underwent "successful surgery" last week.

Random drug test revealed cancer

Dig deeper:

Singleton underwent a random drug test, conducted by the NFL’s Drug Testing Program, and received a notice that he had "elevated levels" of a hormone called hcG.

hcG, or human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone that is typically produced by the placenta in pregnant women, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

However, if high levels of hcG are found in someone who is not pregnant, such as Singleton, it could also be a sign of cancer.

What they're saying:

"Without a doubt, I knew with how diligent I am with what goes into my body that it was not from anything external that I had taken," Singleton said.

He made an appointment with his doctor and Singleton was told he had a testicular tumor. 

Big picture view:

Singleton wanted his cancer diagnosis to be a reminder about the importance of early detection and regular testing. 

"I wrestled with sharing such personal information publicly. But the fact is, if it helps one person decide to pay closer attention to their body, then it is well worth it," he wrote. 

What's next:

Singleton is recovering from surgery and said he can’t "wait to get back on the field."