Having cancer can be a very frightening experience.
However, there are many who have survived cancer and live completely normal lives.
Cancer is when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and can invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body.
It develops due to genetic mutations that disrupt cell growth and division, with smoking, infections, environmental exposure, genetics and lifestyle factors among the risk factors.
And despite what we think when we look at the glamorous, near-perfect lives of celebrities, they too have undergone cancer treatment.
Five well-known names include:
1. Angelina Jolie – Preventive surgery (breast cancer risk)
Angelina Jolie carried the BRCA1 gene mutation, which significantly increased her risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
She underwent preventive mastectomy and later surgery, raising global awareness about genetic risks and early prevention.
2. Hugh Jackman – Skin cancer
Hugh Jackman has been treated several times for basal cell carcinoma, a common form of skin cancer.
He encourages regular sun protection and early screening.
3. Christina Applegate – Breast Cancer
Christina Applegate was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 and underwent a double mastectomy. She has since been cancer-free and advocates for awareness and early detection.
4. Robert De Niro – Prostate cancer
Robert De Niro was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2003 and was successfully treated. He has spoken about the importance of regular screening and early detection.
5. Sharon Osbourne – Colon cancer
Sharon Osbourne survived colon cancer after surgery and chemotherapy, and later promoted routine colonoscopies.
Furthermore, considering the different types of cancer that can affect a person, the three most common forms are:
Lung cancer
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide. It is strongly linked to smoking, although non-smokers can also develop it from passive smoking.
Symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath and coughing up blood. Early detection is difficult and therefore prevention – especially avoiding tobacco – is crucial.
Breast cancer
Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably. It is the most common form of cancer among women worldwide.
Symptoms include a lump in the breast, changes in breast shape, or nipple discharge. Early detection through self-exams and mammograms significantly improves survival rates.
Colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum and often starts as small growths called polyps. Symptoms include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss. Screening, such as colonoscopy, plays a key role in prevention and early detection.
