Olivia Newton-John, the beloved Australian actress and singer celebrated for her iconic role as Sandy in “Grease” and chart-topping hits like “Physical,” passed away on August 8th at the age of 73. Her death marked the end of a courageous, decades-long journey with metastatic breast cancer, a battle she faced with unwavering grace and determination. While the immediate cause of death was attributed to complications from this long-term illness, her life and legacy are defined by much more than her struggle with cancer.
Newton-John’s initial diagnosis of breast cancer came in 1992. According to reports from CNN and medical sources, she underwent a partial mastectomy, chemotherapy, and breast reconstruction. For many years, she experienced remission, a period of relief and recovery. However, the cancer recurred in 2013, manifesting as a tumor in her shoulder. In 2017, she faced another recurrence, with a tumor at the base of her spine. This pattern of recurrence, unfortunately, is not uncommon with certain types of breast cancer.
Dr. Nicole Christian, a surgical oncologist and member of the CU Cancer Center, explains that this extended timeframe between recurrences is particularly seen in low-grade, estrogen-positive breast cancers. These types are often less aggressive initially but can return as metastatic disease even after prolonged periods of remission. “There are definitely types of breast cancer where the window in which the cancer can come back as metastatic disease is very prolonged,” Dr. Christian states. Unlike some cancers with a shorter, five-year window for recurrence concerns, breast cancer, especially certain subtypes, can resurface much later.
Metastatic cancer, also known as stage 4 cancer, signifies that the cancer has spread from its original site to other parts of the body. In breast cancer, common sites for metastasis include the bones, lungs, liver, and brain. Dr. Christian emphasizes that breast cancer has a tendency to spread to the bones, making it crucial for survivors to be vigilant about persistent or severe pain. Even years after initial treatment, new, severe, or persistent pain should be promptly evaluated by a doctor, and patients should remind their healthcare providers of their past breast cancer history.
Beyond her personal battle, Olivia Newton-John became a powerful advocate for a holistic approach to cancer treatment. She co-founded the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre in Australia, championing the integration of traditional medical treatments with complementary therapies like herbal medicine, meditation, and lifestyle adjustments, including dietary changes. Dr. Christian supports this integrative approach, noting, “What we know from the full body of research on breast cancer is that a multidisciplinary approach is really the most effective way to approach the disease.” She encourages patients to consider these complementary practices as enhancements to standard medical care, improving their quality of life during treatment. However, she stresses that these holistic methods should not replace conventional medical treatments but rather work alongside them.
Since Olivia Newton-John’s initial diagnosis in 1992, significant advancements have been made in breast cancer treatment. Dr. Christian points out that a woman diagnosed with breast cancer today at the same age Newton-John was (44) would likely have a different treatment experience and potentially a more favorable prognosis due to these advancements. “One of the good things about the treatment of breast cancer is that we have a lot of really effective treatments,” she says. The ongoing research and focus on breast cancer, due to its prevalence, continually lead to new and more effective treatments. These advancements have significantly improved long-term survival rates, even for those with metastatic breast cancer, offering hope and better management of the disease.
In conclusion, Olivia Newton-John’s cause of death was ultimately metastatic breast cancer, a disease she battled with strength and openness for three decades. Her journey not only highlighted the challenges of this illness but also her commitment to holistic wellness and her enduring legacy as an advocate for cancer research and patient-centered care. Her contributions to both entertainment and cancer awareness leave an indelible mark, reminding us of the importance of early detection, continued research, and compassionate care in the fight against breast cancer.
