EastEnders Star Kara Tointon Opens Up About Life-Changing Health Decision
Former EastEnders actress Kara Tointon, aged 42, has shared an emotional and empowering update regarding her health journey following a preventative double mastectomy. The television star underwent the significant surgery last year after genetic testing revealed she carries the BRCA1 gene, which substantially increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Genetic Discovery and Family History
Kara Tointon discovered her genetic predisposition after undergoing testing while her mother, Carol, was battling ovarian cancer in 2018. The actress revealed there is a history of both breast and ovarian cancer on her mother's side of the family, though generational trauma had previously prevented thorough investigation into their genetic health.
"We took the test, and it was confirmed that my mum and I both carried the gene," Kara explained in a recent Instagram video. "As a carrier, it means I am at a greater risk of both breast and ovarian cancer."
Navigating Surveillance and Surgical Options
Following her diagnosis, Kara engaged in several years of regular surveillance through the National Health Service, which included frequent MRIs, biopsies, and various tests. However, as a mother of two young children, she ultimately decided that preventative surgery represented the best choice for her family's future.
"At first I was happy with surveillance," Kara shared during a BBC Breakfast appearance. "We're so lucky with these genetic mutations now that we're getting to know more about personal genetics, and surveillance suits a lot of people very well. But for me, finding things, having lots of biopsies, different tests all the time, having two young children, I just took the decision that it was the right move for me."
Preventative Surgical Procedures
In 2025, after completing her family with the birth of her second son in 2021, Kara underwent two preventative surgeries:
- A double mastectomy to significantly reduce her breast cancer risk
- A two-part protective study involving removal of her fallopian tubes, with planned ovary removal closer to menopause
The second procedure follows emerging medical understanding that ovarian cancer often begins in the fallopian tubes, making their removal an important preventative measure.
Advocacy and Communication
Kara has become a vocal advocate for genetic testing and open communication about health decisions, working closely with cancer charity The Eve Appeal. She emphasized that sharing her story was initially daunting but ultimately rewarding.
"I knew that people who had spoken about it when I was going through my journey, it comforted me, it helped so much," she revealed. "I wanted to do the same. I am really glad I have. The response was overwhelming."
Understanding BRCA Genes
The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes normally protect against cancer development, but specific variants or mutations can significantly increase cancer risks:
- Women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 variants face high risks of breast and ovarian cancer
- There's a 50% chance of passing the variant to each child
- Men with BRCA2 variants may have increased risks of breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancers
Kara's sister tested negative for the gene variant, highlighting how genetic inheritance can vary even within immediate families.
Personal Empowerment Through Difficult Decisions
Reflecting on her journey, Kara described the decision as "a no-brainer" given her family's experience with cancer. She acknowledged that the initial step of scheduling her first appointment was the most challenging part of the process.
"Don't be scared," she advised others facing similar situations. "Facing things actually is empowering."
Now on the other side of her surgeries, Kara continues to encourage people to understand their genetic makeup, explore all available options, and engage in open conversations about health with medical professionals and loved ones.
