Actress Olivia Munn recently revealed on social media that she was diagnosed with breast cancer last year. The 43-year-old opened up about the illness for the first time, bravely sharing that she underwent four surgeries in the last 10 months, including a double mastectomy. In a heartfelt post on Instagram, Munn wrote, "I hope by sharing this it will help others find comfort, inspiration and support on their own journey." She posted a carousel of pictures from the hospital, sharing her journey through the difficult time. She also wrote a letter describing why she chose to keep this side of her away from the public eye.
Olivia Munn got candid about her breast cancer diagnosis and the exhausting phase of treatments and surgeries. She thanked the healthcare specialists who guided her through these times and expressed gratitude for her friends and family who stood by her, instilling confidence.
Olivia Munn Shares Cancer Journey
American actress Olivia Munn, best known for her role in X-Men, shared in an Instagram post that she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023, which she found out about during regular checkups. "In February of 2023, in an effort to be proactive about my health, I took a genetic test that checks you for 90 different cancer genes. I tested negative for all, including BRCA (the most well-known breast cancer gene). My sister Sara had just tested negative as well. We called each other and high-fived over the phone. That same winter I also had a normal mammogram. Two months later I was diagnosed with breast cancer," she wrote.
The 43-year-old shared that she underwent a double mastectomy and three other surgeries in the last ten months. "In the past ten months I have had four surgeries, so many days spent in bed I can't even count and have learned more about cancer, cancer treatment and hormones than I ever could have imagined. Surprisingly, I've only cried twice. I guess I haven't felt like there was time to cry. My focus narrowed and I tabled any emotions I felt would interfere with my ability to stay clear-headed."
The mother-of-one then opened up about the painful efforts of hiding this side of her life from the public eye. "I've tended to let people see me when I have energy, when I can get dressed and get out of the house, or when I can take my baby boy to the park. I've kept the diagnosis and the worry and the recovery and the pain medicine and the paper gowns private. I needed to catch my breath and get through some of the hardest parts before sharing."
Staying Ahead Of Health Risks
Munn not only shared about her personal journey but also asserted the importance of women prioritising their health and getting regular checkups. Drawing from her experience, she said, "I wouldn't have found my cancer for another year - at my next scheduled mammogram except that my OBGYN, Dr Thaïs Aliabadi, decided to calculate my Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Score. The fact that she did, saved my life," she said, thanking her doctor for the proactive approach.
She further elaborated on the details behind her diagnosis, including family history, risk factors, and how a single test overlooked health assessment could cost a person's life. "Dr. Aliabadi looked at factors like my age, familial breast cancer history, and the fact that I had my first child after the age of 30. She discovered my lifetime risk was at 37%. Because of that score, I was sent to get an MRI, which led to an ultrasound, which then led to a biopsy. The biopsy showed I had Luminal B cancer in both breasts. Luminal B is an aggressive, fast-moving cancer," Munn detailed.
She continued, "I'm lucky. We caught it with enough time that I had options. I want the same for any woman who might have to face this one day. Ask your doctor to calculate your Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Score. Dr Aliabadi says that If the number is greater than 20%, you need annual mammograms and breast MRIs starting at age 30."
Get Yourself Checked!
In our society, women's healthcare is often overlooked, ignored, or even shamed. Thus, when people with a large following raise awareness about these issues, it can create a big shift in these dynamics. Olivia Munn's post is a poignant reminder for people, especially women, to actively work towards not only bettering their fitness but also getting regularly checked for issues that go unseen.
Despite initially testing negative for over 90 cancer genes, Munn's proactiveness became a lifesaver when she got re-assessed a few months later. By staying regularly in contact with her OBGYN, she was able to be aware of the necessary tests appropriate for her age and lifestyle and stay ahead of any risk factors.
By openly sharing her experiences and advocating for breast cancer awareness, Munn has contributed to breaking down the stigma surrounding women's health issues and encouraged others to prioritise their health and well-being. Moreover, her post also became a safe space for many others struggling with chronic illnesses, fostering a sense of solidarity and community.
Views expressed by the author are their own.
/shethepeople/media/agency_attachments/iUYfaBbcMozaYLoGnoov.png)
/shethepeople/media/member_avatars/6PFAqAWygpdpsW9HJtjQ.png )
Follow Us/shethepeople/media/media_files/9PIUW3fEld0xrANFF8ub.png)