Mumbai: Actress Hina Khan has opened up about the emotional and physical challenges she faced during her battle with Stage 3 breast cancer, revealing how spirituality became her biggest source of strength during chemotherapy. Reflecting on the difficult period, Hina said she experienced significant physical changes, including weight gain and hair loss, but learned to focus on inner peace rather than outward appearance.
The television star, who publicly announced her diagnosis in June 2024, has been candid about her treatment journey, regularly sharing updates to inspire others facing similar health challenges. During a recent conversation on Soha Ali Khan’s podcast, Hina spoke about the importance of maintaining hope, surrounding oneself with positivity and embracing spirituality while undergoing treatment.
Hina recalls the emotional impact of chemotherapy
Speaking about the side effects of chemotherapy, Hina admitted that watching her body change was one of the hardest parts of the journey.
“I put on a lot of weight. My body changed. I lost my hair,” she said, adding that losing not only her hair but also her eyelashes affected her confidence.
Although she initially tried to remain strong, Hina said it became emotionally overwhelming once the reality of her condition began to sink in. Looking at herself in the mirror was particularly difficult during those early stages of treatment.
‘Spirituality has changed me’
Despite the physical and emotional challenges, Hina said spirituality helped her find acceptance and resilience.
She explained that while appearance naturally matters to many people, mental well-being should take priority during difficult times.
According to Hina, surrounding oneself with positive influences—whether through family, meditation, faith or spirituality—can make a significant difference during recovery.
“Especially spirituality. It has changed me,” she said, describing it as one of the biggest factors that helped her remain grounded throughout her cancer journey.
Chemotherapy was physically exhausting
Hina also spoke about the severe physical discomfort she experienced after each chemotherapy session.
She revealed that the first week following treatment was the most difficult, with intense neuropathic pain affecting her entire body.
Although pain medication helped reduce the intensity, she said the discomfort would gradually ease over the following days.
Hina explained that her chemotherapy sessions were scheduled every three weeks, allowing her to recover and enjoy life during the remaining two weeks before the next cycle began. She said she continued travelling and spending time with loved ones whenever her health permitted.
Choosing hope over fear
The actress said she never wanted her diagnosis to define her life.
Instead of viewing cancer as the end of her journey, Hina chose to see it as a temporary phase that she was determined to overcome.
She encouraged others facing similar challenges to give their best every day, even when circumstances are beyond their control.
According to Hina, maintaining a positive outlook and focusing on what can be controlled helped her continue moving forward despite the uncertainties of treatment.
Inspiring others through openness
Since revealing her diagnosis, Hina Khan has consistently used social media and interviews to raise awareness about breast cancer and encourage regular health check-ups.
Her willingness to discuss the realities of chemotherapy, body image and mental health has resonated with many patients and caregivers.
By sharing both the difficult moments and the progress she has made, Hina continues to inspire people facing serious illnesses to seek support, stay hopeful and prioritise emotional well-being alongside medical treatment.
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