Strictly Star Kara Tointon Opens Up About Preventative Double Mastectomy
Former EastEnders actress and Strictly Come Dancing champion Kara Tointon has publicly shared a significant health update following her decision to undergo a preventative double mastectomy last year. The actress, who tested positive for the BRCA genetic mutation, which heightens cancer risk, appeared on BBC Breakfast to discuss her journey and encourage others to prioritise their health.
Embracing a Positive Outlook Post-Surgery
During her interview with hosts Sally Nugent and Jon Kay, Tointon expressed relief and positivity, stating she is now "on the other side" of the procedure. She emphasised that the choice was deeply personal, tailored to her lifestyle and circumstances, but for her, it proved to be "the right move." Tointon highlighted the importance of open communication about health, aiming to inspire viewers to get checked and understand their bodies better.
"Everyone has a different choice to make depending on their lifestyle and who they are," she remarked. "But for me, this is right, and I can only speak about it in a kind of positive way, because it has been positive. And I'm on the other side and sort of flying the flag for people to get checked and get to know their bodies and talk more, because communication is key."
Overcoming Daunting Family History
Tointon revealed that discussing her experience initially felt "quite daunting," but she was motivated by the comfort she derived from others who had shared similar stories during her own journey. Her family history includes the loss of her mother to cancer, as well as her aunt and grandmother at young ages, creating what she described as a "generational trauma" that she is now actively addressing.
"I suppose, for me, it's been a family trauma without knowing it," she explained. "My mum lost her mother when she was 13. We lost my auntie at the age of 42. And so it's been this sort of constant, yes, generational trauma, which I don't think we really think about until we understand it."
She added that having two young children influenced her decision to opt for surgery over ongoing surveillance, despite acknowledging that genetic monitoring can be suitable for many. "But for me, finding things, having lots of biopsies, different tests all the time, having two young children, and I just took the decision that this was the right move for me," Tointon said.
Advocating for Genetic Awareness and Action
Tointon stressed the value of modern genetic knowledge and the opportunities it provides for proactive health measures. She expressed gratitude for the chance to take control of her health, a privilege she wishes her late family members had enjoyed.
"And I've been given an opportunity to do something about it, and I wish my mum, my auntie, and my grandmother had had the same opportunity," she stated. "So I have to take that by the reins, because it's good for me."
Her appearance on BBC Breakfast has sparked widespread discussion, with many praising her courage and advocacy for increased health awareness. The show airs daily on BBC One from 6am, continuing to feature impactful stories like Tointon's.
