Kristina Rihanoff Reveals Cancer Scare and Perimenopause Battle
Former Strictly Come Dancing star Kristina Rihanoff shares her struggles with an elevated risk of breast cancer, perimenopause symptoms, and financial difficulties.
Kristina Rihanoff, a former professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, has disclosed a year-long battle with significant health concerns, including an elevated risk of breast cancer and severe perimenopause symptoms. The 49-year-old dancer revealed that she carries a rare genetic mutation known as an abnormal CHEK2 gene, which has doubled her risk of developing breast cancer.
This discovery has led Rihanoff to undergo regular medical checks, including mammograms, blood tests, and both ovarian and breast scans. She described her current mental state as being in a "black hole," struggling with daily pain, sickness, and headaches, and finding it difficult to socialize or engage in public life. "Once I start worrying, I can't get it out of my head," Rihanoff stated, detailing waking up with night sweats and a racing heart. "This has been so demoralising and it's really taking its toll."
In addition to the cancer scare, Rihanoff has been experiencing extreme perimenopause symptoms and "incredibly heavy periods." Doctors have advised her against hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and she is now contemplating a hysterectomy to remove her womb and ovaries in an effort to manage her symptoms. Rihanoff's family history includes both ovarian and breast cancer, prompting her genetic testing in 2023.
Her 10-year-old daughter, Mila, has been a source of support during her dark days. Rihanoff previously participated in the "Dare To Bare" campaign in 2013 to raise funds for Breast Cancer Care.
Rihanoff's personal life has also faced recent turmoil. Reports from last year indicated that she and her ex-partner, former rugby player Ben Cohen, were navigating financial difficulties and disputes with creditors and the government. Their 12-year relationship reportedly ended due to these severe financial struggles, which were exacerbated by significant debts incurred from investing in a yoga studio that faced crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges were brought to light during a court appearance where Rihanoff was cited for driving without insurance, an incident Cohen stated was a result of his mishandling of their car insurance policy amid his fight to save their relationship and home.