Television presenter Myleene Klass, 48, has shared her experience of a recent cancer scare after discovering two lumps in her breast. Klass took to Instagram on Tuesday to encourage women to perform self-examinations after she coincidentally found a lump while attending Wimbledon in June. She assured her followers that she is now well after receiving an all-clear, describing the experience as "sobering, humbling and terrifying."
In a detailed social media post, Klass urged women to "check yourselves." She explained that while at Wimbledon, she "casually folded my arms and there it was. Then a second one." The days that followed were a period of anxious waiting, during which she said she "reorganised my life into a new set of priorities and ‘what ifs’." Ultimately, she received an all-clear after undergoing tests that identified three cysts and three lymph nodes.
Klass noted the emotional impact of the experience, especially as she has friends currently undergoing similar health challenges. She highlighted that for anyone with children, the concern for their well-being becomes the "first and final concern" during such times. The presenter also revealed that having an ultrasound was challenging, as she had not undergone one since experiencing multiple miscarriages. "All this to say, as a fierce advocate for women’s health and not hiding what’s uncomfortable, right now, check yourself and go get a second opinion," she stated, extending thanks to a medical professional for their swift assistance.
Klass's disclosure comes shortly after her close friend and fellow presenter Lauren Laverne announced her diagnosis with a rare blood and bone marrow disorder. Laverne had previously battled cancer, receiving an all-clear in November of the previous year.
Breast cancer is a prevalent disease globally. In the UK, over 55,000 new cases are diagnosed annually, with around 11,500 deaths. In the United States, it affects approximately 266,000 individuals each year, leading to 40,000 fatalities. The condition typically arises from cancerous cells developing in the lining of a breast duct or lobule. When cancer spreads to surrounding tissue, it is termed 'invasive.' Early stages, where cancer cells have not spread beyond the duct or lobule, are known as 'carcinoma in situ.' While most cases occur in individuals over 50, younger women can also be affected, and breast cancer is rare in men.
Symptoms often include a painless lump, though most breast lumps are benign cysts. Swelling or a lump in the armpit can indicate the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. Diagnosis typically involves a clinical breast examination, mammography, and potentially a biopsy. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormone therapy, often in combination. The outlook for patients is generally better when cancer is diagnosed at an early, localized stage.