In a groundbreaking 2013 editorial, Angelina Jolie announced her preventive double mastectomy after testing positive for the BRCA1 gene, which gives carriers a high lifetime risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Motivated by her mother’s battle with breast cancer, Jolie shared her story to help other women facing similar choices.
She described the physical and emotional toll of multiple surgeries but highlighted the empowerment in taking control of her health. Jolie urged women to seek genetic testing if their family histories suggest cancer risk and to explore all preventive options without stigma.
Her openness sparked widespread public health awareness, often called the “Angelina Effect,” increasing women’s proactive engagement with cancer prevention.
