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Tahira Kashyap, a filmmaker and author, recently shared a deeply personal update—her breast cancer has returned after seven years. Married to Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana, Tahira was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018. On World Health Day this year, she posted a message on Instagram, revealing her relapse with grace, hope, and a dash of humour.
Many celebrities and fans commented on her post to give her strength. Twinkle Khanna said, “With you all the way my friend. You beat all of us at bowling and you will beat this too. Love you loads.” Film producer Guneet Monga expressed, “I love you! this too shall pass and come out of this victorious.” A cancer survivor and Bollywood celebrity Sonali Bendre said, “No words baby! Just sending love strength and prayers.” Various fans showed their support through messages like, “U are a fighter u will win this too,” and “You will be fit and fine soon.”
This update raises an important and often worrying question: Why do some cancers come back, even after years? Here’s all we need to know about cancer recurrence, the possible complications, and how regular screenings and awareness can make a real difference.
Poll
Do you believe that regular screenings can help in early cancer detection?
What does it really mean?
When cancer comes back after a period of remission, it is called a relapse or recurrence. In Tahira Kashyap’s case, breast cancer returned after seven years—a significant gap that highlights how unpredictable the disease can be.
Cancer cells sometimes lie dormant in the body, undetected by tests or treatments. These “sleeping” cells may reawaken later and start growing again. This can happen even if the original cancer was treated successfully. According to the American Cancer Society, recurrence can be local (in the same area), regional (nearby lymph nodes), or distant (spread to other organs).
Each type of recurrence presents different treatment challenges and emotional tolls. But it’s important to remember: recurrence doesn’t mean failure—it simply means the journey continues.
Why do some breast cancers return after years?
Cancer is complex. There is no single reason it comes back, but several factors can increase the risk:
- Cancer type and stage: Some aggressive types of breast cancer are more likely to return. Higher-stage cancers (especially Stage III or IV) also carry a greater risk.
- Hormone receptors: Breast cancers that are hormone receptor-positive can return after many years because they may grow slowly over time.
- Incomplete eradication: Sometimes, a small number of cancer cells survive initial treatment and grow back later.
- Lifestyle and genetics: Lifestyle factors like smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise can increase recurrence risk. Genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2 can also influence relapse chances.
Emotional and physical complications of a relapse
Facing cancer once is life-changing. Facing it again can be mentally and physically exhausting. Some common challenges during a relapse may include:
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, fear, and even guilt are common. Many survivors worry about how this round will be different—or harder.
- Treatment side effects: Chemotherapy, radiation, or surgeries often take a toll on the body, especially when repeated.
- Financial and career disruptions: Treatments can interrupt daily life, work, and responsibilities, adding another layer of stress.
- Family impact: Watching a loved one go through it again can be painful. Yet, the support system becomes even more vital during a relapse.
Breast cancer can recur due to a combination of factors related to the nature of the original cancer, the treatment received, and individual patient characteristics. First and foremost, the type and biology of breast cancer play a crucial role. The stage at which the cancer was first diagnosed also impacts recurrence—early-stage cancers have a lower risk of coming back, while advanced-stage cancers carry a higher risk despite treatment. Additionally, whether a patient received and completed the full course of standard treatment—including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapy—can influence recurrence rates.After treatment, regular monitoring and follow-up are essential to detect any signs of recurrence early. Standard post-treatment surveillance includes periodic mammograms, ultrasounds, and sometimes PET-CT scans, with the frequency tapering off over time. Typically, intensive monitoring is recommended in the first five years after treatment, as this is the period of highest risk. In recent years, new technologies like liquid biopsy have emerged, which allow for the detection of circulating tumor DNA or cancer cells in the blood—sometimes even before changes appear on scans. While still experimental and not yet part of standard guidelines, these tools are being used on a personalized basis to monitor recurrence and guide further treatment.
Dr Mandeep Singh Malhotra, Director of Surgical Oncology at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi
Tahira’s transparency, from showing her shaved head to sharing her emotional reflections, has helped reduce the stigma and silence that often surround cancer.
Staying proactive: Small steps towards big protection
While not all recurrences can be prevented, certain habits and choices may lower the risk:
- Follow-up appointments: Never miss regular follow-ups or tests after the first cancer recovery.
- Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular physical activity, enough sleep, and limited alcohol can support long-term health.
- Stress management: Practices like meditation, journaling, or therapy can help in coping with emotional burdens.
- Awareness and education: Being informed about symptoms, recurrence risks, and treatment options empowers better decision-making.
Tahira’s story brings a human face to the conversation—one of strength, vulnerability, and hope. It reminds everyone that healing is a lifelong journey, and every step, no matter how small, matters.
