On World Health Day, when the world paused to reflect on health and wellness, filmmaker and author Tahira Kashyap shared a deeply personal update—her breast cancer has returned. Known for her strength and positivity, Tahira Kashyap, the wife of actor Ayushmann Khurrana, took to Instagram to reveal that she’s gearing up for round two with the disease.
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“I Still Got This,” Says Tahira
Tahira was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018. She bravely battled stage zero breast cancer, a very early form of the disease where abnormal cells are confined to the milk ducts or lobules of the breast.
Now, five years later, she finds herself facing it again—but with the same resilience and humor. Posting on Instagram, she wrote, “Seven-year itch or the power of regular screening—it’s a perspective. I’d like to go with the latter and suggest the same for everyone who needs to get regular mammograms. Round 2 for me… I still got this.”
She even added a touch of her signature wit: “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. When life becomes too generous and throws them again at you, you squeeze them calmly into your favorite kala khatta drink and sip it with all the good intentions.” Her message, while humorous, carried a powerful reminder about self-care, awareness, and gratitude.
What We Can Learn From Tahira Kashyap’s Journey
Tahira Kashyap’s openness sheds light on something many don’t realize—breast cancer can come back even after successful treatment. According to leading oncologists, breast cancer recurrence can happen due to a small number of cancer cells surviving the initial therapy. These dormant cells can stay inactive for years but may get reactivated and start multiplying again under certain triggers.
Dr. Sewanti Limaye, Director of Medical & Precision Oncology at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, explains, “These surviving cancer cells might spread to other parts of the body or remain in the original site. Recurrence can happen even years after the first diagnosis.”
Who’s at Higher Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence?
Not all breast cancer patients have the same risk of recurrence. Certain types of breast cancer are more aggressive or harder to treat. Here are a few key risk factors:
- HER2-positive and triple-negative breast cancers often show recurrence in the first few years after treatment.
- Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, though considered less aggressive, can return even after 10 or 20 years.
- Inflammatory breast cancer also carries a higher recurrence risk.
- Family history plays a major role. Women with genetic conditions like BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations face a significantly higher risk.
In fact, up to 20% of survivors with a family history report relapse unless both breasts are removed as a preventive measure.
Why Regular Screening Matters
One thing that worked in Tahira Kashyap’s favor was her commitment to regular check-ups. She has been undergoing routine mammograms since her first diagnosis—something that likely helped catch the recurrence early.
Early detection plays a crucial role in the treatment and management of breast cancer. The sooner a recurrence is identified, the better the chances of effective treatment.
Tahira’s case highlights the importance of consistent follow-up care even after remission. Breast cancer survivors should be especially vigilant during the first five years post-treatment and continue with annual screenings and regular medical consultations for years to come.
How Can You Reduce the Risk of Recurrence?
While no one can guarantee a cancer-free future, here are some steps that may help lower the risk:
- Long-term hormone therapy: Especially for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, treatments may be prescribed for 5 to 10 years or more.
- Healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, limited alcohol intake, and avoiding smoking can improve overall health and potentially reduce risk.
- Genetic testing and counseling: For those with a strong family history, understanding your genetic risk factors can guide decisions about preventive treatment.
- Routine screenings: Never underestimate the power of a mammogram. Early detection saves lives.
Final Thoughts
Tahira Kashyap’s courage and positivity are once again inspiring thousands. Her voice continues to break the stigma around breast cancer and shows that vulnerability can be a source of strength. As she steps into round two of her fight, her message is clear: screening saves lives, attitude matters, and gratitude can carry us through even the hardest times.
On this World Health Day, let’s not only applaud Tahira for her bravery but also take her message to heart—take care of your health, go for regular check-ups, and never stop fighting with hope.