Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, reveals she is in 'remission from cancer'; experts explain what this means

Catherine, Princess of Wales, also known as Kate Middleton, in March 2024, revealed that she was diagnosed with cancer. On Tuesday, January 14, 2025, the Princess of Wales took to her Instagram to announce that her 'cancer is in remission' after treatment.?

As soon as the post surfaced on the internet, her followers sent her well wishes. In the post, Kate expressed her optimism about the future and said it is a relief to now be in remission, and she focused on her recovery. She also mentioned that as people who have experienced a cancer diagnosis, they might be aware that cancer takes time to recover from and adjust to the new normal.?

Amid the good news, let's understand what 'cancer in remission' means. Has the princess defeated cancer or reduced the further risk? “The name indicates the cautiously optimistic view of oncologists, who understand that while cancer may not now be apparent, dormant cancer cells may still exist within the body,” says Dr. Khyati Bhatia, Consultant-Head and Neck Surgeon at Max Hospital, Patparganj.?

What is ‘cancer in remission’?

The state in which there is no further sign of cancer activity is known as cancer remission or, in some cases, as the absence of cancer. Dr. Bhatia explains, “This is due to the rare utilisation of the term "cure" for cancer since instances of recurrence frequently arise. This is further particularly clarified with certain methods of examination and the imaging process.”

“The clinical examination features have been determined for certain kinds of solid tumours, such as oral malignancies,” she adds. In thyroid and circulating cancers, other medical tests have been adopted to confirm the existence or non-existence of malignant processes.

This is instructive for patient outcomes in general. Through the lens of remission, oncologists concentrate on the execution aspect of disease management, rather than its eradication.?

How does ‘cancer in remission’ help??

It embodies research initiatives emphasising aggressive follow-up and continuing care to allow for timely projection of any recurrences. “To be in remission means that there are reduced signs and symptoms of cancer or they have completely disappeared,” highlights Dr. Shrey Srivastava, Internal Medicine at Sharda Hospital, Greater Noida.

This can happen due to effective treatment during chemotherapy, radiation, surgeries, or immunotherapy, or because the body can fight off cancer with the help of the immune system. Dr. Srivastava further adds, “This is the stage of remission that does not quite equate to a total cure, however—a compromised state will remain as long as the patient is still under treatment.”

Steps to take care after cancer remission

• Regular check-ups are key: Regular checkups with the doctor help to monitor relapses.
• Stay healthy and active: Fit Lifestyle. Eat healthily. Keep up the exercise program. Avoid intake of alcohol and smoking.
• Take care of mental health: Counselling or joining a support group will help one cope with the emotional and psychological aspects.
• Prevention is a cure: Follow the doctor's advice for recommended examinations and vaccinations posed on health grounds. Be careful. Report any strange change in the body to the doctor.

These steps promote long-term well-being and decrease the chances of a reoccurrence.

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