TV Star's Health Wake-Up Call After Debilitating Condition
Carol Vorderman has disclosed she is undergoing comprehensive medical tests to screen for 70 different types of cancer following her struggle with severe rheumatoid arthritis that left her in agony last year. The 64-year-old television personality revealed her dramatic shift in health approach during an Instagram exchange with Coronation Street actress Sally Dynevor.
Preventative Health Becomes Personal Mission
Vorderman commented on Dynevor's post about undergoing a full body MRI and CT scan, writing: "Morning Sally. I've done the same this year with a full body MRI and all clear thankfully. Having the special blood test for 70 cancers this week. Early detection where possible is now my mantra."
The former Countdown star explained how her perspective on health has transformed since being "struck with sudden and chronically debilitating rheumatoid arthritis almost a year ago." She described the lengthy process of finding the right medication and emphasised she no longer takes her wellbeing for granted.
The Painful Reality of Rheumatoid Arthritis
During an appearance on Heart Breakfast last month, Vorderman opened up about the severity of her condition, revealing it would often leave her "lying on the floor crying for a day." She told hosts Amanda Holden and Jamie Theakston about the physical limitations she experienced, including being unable to move her shoulder and having to keep her arm fixed at her waist.
"I had been on steroids on and off for months and months and months," she explained, highlighting the challenging journey to find effective treatment. The presenter expressed relief at now being steroid-free for approximately three months and embracing her return to better health.
Vorderman acknowledged that while costs for advanced health screenings have decreased, they remain prohibitive for many people. She praised Dynevor for spreading awareness about preventative health measures, noting that such openness "helps no end of us mere mortals."
According to NHS information, rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term condition causing joint pain, swelling and stiffness, often with unpredictable flare-ups that can severely impact quality of life. The condition typically affects hands, feet and wrists, and can also cause broader symptoms including fatigue and weight loss.
