TV Personality Einat Erlich Diagnosed With Aggressive Brain Cancer

Israeli television personality Einat Erlich, 57, revealed last week that she has been diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive and malignant brain tumor. Erlich shared the news on her Instagram account, stating, "I am no longer healthy. This week I was diagnosed with GBM, glioblastoma. Brain cancer. Words I never thought I would write about myself."

Dr. Ido Feldor, head of the Brain Tumor Unit at Shaare Zedek Medical Center, explained to N12 that glioblastoma originates within the brain itself, unlike metastases, and typically does not spread to other parts of the body. While it can occur at any age, its incidence increases with age, peaking between 50 and 70. The initial step in diagnosis involves a tumor biopsy.

While complete surgical removal of the tumor can extend life, glioblastoma is not considered curable. If a full resection is too risky or the tumor is widespread, doctors may perform only a biopsy. Following surgery or biopsy, patients typically undergo a course of radiation and chemotherapy for several months, with ongoing monitoring. Erlich has already undergone a complex and successful surgery to remove the tumor, performed by Dr. Tal Shahar and Dr. Naomi Kahana Levy at Ichilov Hospital.

Dr. Feldor noted that there are no known risk factors for developing glioblastoma, and lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, or exercise do not appear to influence the risk. There is also currently no evidence linking mobile phone radiation to an increased risk of glioblastoma. Erlich expressed fear, anger, and sadness but also emphasized the strong support she is receiving from her family, friends, and partner, Johnny. She is now beginning the next phase of her treatment, stating her determination to fight the disease and heal.