Former world number one and tennis icon Chris Evert has shared the news that her ovarian cancer has returned. The 71-year-old, who has previously battled the disease, made the announcement via social media, stating that she will remain 'optimistic' despite the 'relentless' nature of the illness.
Evert, an 18-time Grand Slam champion and three-time Wimbledon winner, revealed that scans over the past weekend confirmed the recurrence. She has already undergone surgery as the initial step in her treatment plan and is set to begin chemotherapy in the coming weeks. As a result, Evert confirmed she will not be attending Wimbledon this year and will be stepping back from her professional commitments to prioritise her health and recovery.
Her initial diagnosis of ovarian cancer came in 2022 following a preventive hysterectomy. This procedure was undertaken after she discovered she carried the BRCA gene mutation, a genetic predisposition that significantly increases the risk of developing certain cancers, including ovarian cancer. Despite early detection and subsequent chemotherapy, the cancer returned in 2023 and, after a period of remission, has now unfortunately reappeared. Fellow tennis legend Martina Navratilova was among those sending messages of support, expressing confidence in Evert's ability to overcome the illness once more.
Ovarian cancer is often referred to as a 'silent killer' because its symptoms can be vague and easily mistaken for other common conditions, particularly in its early stages. According to Cancer Research UK, around 7,500 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year in the UK. The survival rates vary significantly depending on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed, highlighting the importance of early detection. For those diagnosed at the earliest stage, more than 9 in 10 women survive their cancer for five years or more. However, if diagnosed at a late stage, this figure drops considerably.
The BRCA gene mutation, as carried by Evert, is a significant risk factor. Women with a BRCA1 mutation have a lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer between 35% and 46%, while those with a BRCA2 mutation have a lifetime risk between 10% and 23%, compared to a general population risk of about 1-2%. Genetic testing and counselling are available for individuals with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer to assess their risk and discuss preventative measures or enhanced screening options, as outlined by NHS guidelines.
Evert's openness about her health journey continues to raise awareness for ovarian cancer, encouraging vigilance regarding symptoms and the importance of understanding genetic predispositions for those at higher risk. Her experience underscores the challenges faced by many battling cancer, particularly when the disease recurs.
Source: Chris Evert via social media