Saba Pataudi recalls brain tumour diagnosis at 27

Saba Pataudi, sister of actors Saif Ali Khan and Soha Ali Khan, recently shared her experience regarding a medical crisis she faced at the age of 27. During a conversation on a podcast with Soha, Saba disclosed that she was diagnosed with a brain tumour after experiencing a sudden, unexplained fainting spell while out with a friend.Recalling the event, Saba explained that she initially mistook the episode for a stomach-related issue, as she had no prior symptoms. After losing consciousness twice, she underwent an MRI scan, which revealed a shadow in the third ventricle of her brain. While doctors initially suspected a colloid cyst, a subsequent surgery performed about six months later confirmed the growth to be a pilocytic astrocytoma, a type of low-grade, slow-growing brain tumour.Saba spoke candidly about the emotional toll the diagnosis took on her, noting that the sudden shift from feeling perfectly healthy to requiring brain surgery left her feeling overwhelmed. She shared that she struggled with unexplained bouts of crying as she processed the unexpected news. Despite medical advice suggesting she could potentially delay the procedure for up to two years, Saba opted for immediate surgery, motivated by a desire to regain her health and maintain her independence. She expressed that her primary fear during that time was becoming dependent on others for her daily needs.Reflecting on her decision to speak publicly about the ordeal, Saba expressed hope that sharing her personal story might encourage others to seek medical advice for their own health concerns. She emphasised that discussing such experiences can help provide answers and support for those facing similar medical challenges who might otherwise hesitate to open up.