Dolly Parton Health Scare: Country Icon Dispels Stomach Cancer Rumors, Reveals True Diagnosis
For decades, Dolly Parton has been one of country music’s most enduring stars — a voice that has inspired millions, a personality that radiates warmth, and an image that has become as iconic as her songs. But in recent years, the 78-year-old legend has also found herself at the center of persistent rumors about her health, including claims that she was battling a potentially life-threatening illness.
The speculation reached a peak in 2013 when the National Enquirer reported that Parton had allegedly undergone preventative surgery for esophageal cancer after experiencing troubling symptoms. According to the tabloid, she had reportedly lost 20 pounds, was consuming antacid medication regularly, and could only eat soft, bland foods. One unnamed source even suggested she feared she might die if she did not act quickly.
Parton never confirmed those claims, but the chatter did little to fade away. Years later, concerns over her health resurfaced when rumors spread that she had been “rushed” to hospital with suspected stomach cancer. This time, the whispers painted a dire picture — but once again, the truth was far different from what was reported.
Speaking directly to Billboard at the time, Parton put the speculation to rest. “It’s true that I had kidney stones,” she explained. “I had them removed three weeks ago and I am doing just fine. There is absolutely no truth at all that I have stomach cancer. I love and appreciate everyone’s concern.”
The real cause of her hospital visit was a common but extremely painful condition. Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys and can affect the urinary tract from the kidneys down to the bladder. According to the Mayo Clinic, they develop when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together.
While anyone can develop kidney stones, risk factors include certain diets, excess body weight, underlying medical conditions, and the use of specific supplements or medications. Symptoms often begin with sharp, severe pain in the back or side, radiating to the lower abdomen and groin. Other signs can include nausea, vomiting, blood in the urine, and frequent or painful urination. In some cases, kidney stones can pass on their own, but larger stones may require surgical removal — as in Parton’s case.
For the country superstar, the experience was a reminder of the challenges even the healthiest and most vibrant personalities can face. Her public denial of the stomach cancer rumors was not only an effort to clarify the facts but also a message to fans that she remained in good spirits and strong health.
Parton’s resilience is nothing new. Throughout her decades-long career, she has navigated both personal and professional hardships with a trademark mix of humor, humility, and optimism. Whether weathering industry changes, fending off tabloid gossip, or facing down medical scares, she has always emerged with her smile — and her work ethic — intact.
“I love my life, I love my work, and I plan to keep going as long as I can,” she has often said. True to her word, the star has continued to record music, perform, and champion her many philanthropic efforts, including her Imagination Library literacy program, which has gifted over 200 million free books to children around the world.
For fans, her openness about the kidney stone episode — and her firm dismissal of cancer rumors — was both a relief and a reminder that not everything printed about their favorite artists is true. As Dolly herself made clear, she’s not slowing down anytime soon.