The Jolie Effect – inspiring countless women to test for breast cancer

By Matt Bernard

The Jolie Effect – inspiring countless women to test for breast cancer
Since going public about her double mastectomy in May last year, Angelina Jolie has reportedly caused a massive increase of women testing for breast cancer.

Dubbed “The Jolie Effect”, researchers have published findings in the online journal Breast Cancer Research, stating that the number of women in Britian last year seeking to have breast cancer tests has more than doubled over the same period in 2012 prior to the 39-year-old actress and human rights campaigner’s announcement.

There was found to be over 4800 referrals around 21 different British clinics between the months of June and July last year, as opposed to just under 2000 the previous.

“This may have lessened patients’ fears about a loss of sexual identity post-preventative surgery and encouraged those who had not previously engaged with health services to consider genetic testing,” stated Gareth Evans of the charity Genesis Breast Cancer Prevention.

Jolie chose to have the treatment due to finding out she had an 87% chance of developing the cancer due to a high-risk gene.

“Angelina Jolie is likely to have had a bigger impact than other celebrity announcements, possibly due to her image as a glamorous and strong woman,” stated Evans.

Worldwide Breast Cancer states that one third of all deaths from this disease could be prevented if detected and treated early.

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