Filmmaker Tahira Kashyap, wife of actor Ayushmann Khurrana, has shared that her breast cancer has returned seven years after her initial diagnosis in 2018. Marking the occasion of World Health Day, she posted on Instagram about beginning “Round 2” of her battle, urging others to go for regular mammograms.
Her husband Ayushmann called her “my hero”, and her post was met with support and love across social media.
Why Does Cancer Recur?
Cancer recurrence can happen months or even years after the completion of treatment. According to Cleveland Clinic, this occurs when microscopic cancer cells remain in the body and survive despite aggressive treatment. These dormant cells can become active again over time.
Types of Cancer Recurrence
There are three main types:
- Local Recurrence
Cancer returns to the exact location as the original tumor. - Regional Recurrence
It reappears in the nearby lymph nodes or surrounding tissues. - Distant Recurrence (Metastatic Cancer)
The cancer spreads to distant organs such as the liver, bones, or lungs.
How Common is Breast Cancer Recurrence?
Recurrence of breast cancer is not very common, but it varies. Apollo Hospitals estimates a 20–30% recurrence rate in India, depending on cancer type, stage, and treatment received.
High-Risk Factors
• Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) have higher recurrence rates.
• Women under 35 face a greater risk.
• Most local recurrences happen within five years post-treatment.
Signs and Symptoms of Cancer Recurrence
Local Recurrence
• Lumps near the surgical scar
• Nipple changes
• Swollen or thickened skin
• Unusual firmness in breast tissue
Regional Recurrence
• Swelling or numbness in arms
• Chronic chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Enlarged lymph nodes
Distant (Metastatic) Recurrence
• Fatigue and dizziness
• Chronic cough or chest pain
• Loss of appetite, weight loss
• Seizures, headaches, or balance issues
How to Prevent Cancer from Coming Back
Experts stress the importance of:
• Regular screenings and mammograms
• Healthy lifestyle choices – balanced diet, exercise, proper sleep
• Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and smoking
• Close monitoring of symptoms and timely medical consultation
The American Cancer Society also recommends following standard screening guidelines and additional monitoring for those with family cancer syndromes.
