Tahira Kashyap recently shared that her breast cancer has relapsed for the second time, seven years after her initial diagnosis in 2018. In her message, she highlighted the need for regular mammograms and staying strong when facing difficulties. Experts discuss the reasons behind cancer recurrence and ways to prevent it.
In This Article:
Tahira Kashyap’s Health Update
In an Instagram post, Tahira Kashyap opened up about her journey, saying, “Seven-year itch or the power of regular screening—it’s all about perspective.” She added, “I’d like to go with the latter and encourage everyone to get regular mammograms. Round 2 for me… I’ve got this.” She went on to share an optimistic message, saying, “When life hands you lemons, make lemonade. But when life throws them at you again, calmly squeeze them into your favorite kala khatta drink and sip it with positive intentions. Because, one, it’s a better drink, and two, you know you’ll give it your all once again.”
Tahira’s words resonated deeply with her followers, who offered widespread support.
Understanding Cancer Recurrence and Treatment Options
Cancer recurrence occurs when the disease returns after a period of remission following treatment. This happens when some cancer cells survive the initial therapy and start to grow again. Dr. Srinath D, an oncologist, explains that these cells can sometimes hide or become resistant to treatment, making them more challenging to target.
For breast cancer, treatment typically starts with surgery to remove the tumor, followed by radiation. In certain situations, chemotherapy or hormone therapy may be administered before surgery to shrink the tumor, making it easier to remove. Early detection and access to affordable treatment are crucial in improving survival outcomes and reducing the risk of recurrence.
Risk Factors for Cancer Recurrence
- Age: Women diagnosed with breast cancer before the age of 35 have a higher risk of recurrence compared to those diagnosed later in life.
- Cancer Stage: The stage at which cancer is diagnosed plays a key role in treatment planning. Those with Stage III breast cancer face a greater risk of recurrence than individuals diagnosed with Stage I or II cancer.
- Cancer Type: Some types of breast cancer are more aggressive.
Early Detection and Prevention
- A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and exercise, can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Limiting red and processed meats and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol are apt preventive measures.
- Regular screenings and early detection are vital in identifying recurrence early.
- Engaging in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly has been shown to reduce recurrence by 20-30%.
Thus, Tahira Kashyap’s journey highlights the importance of regular screenings, resilience, and early detection in the fight against cancer. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following preventive measures, the risk of recurrence can be reduced, leading to better outcomes and survival rates.
By – Pavithra
