Olivia Munn's Breast Cancer Revelation
Actress Olivia Munn shared her battle with breast cancer, disclosing that she underwent a double mastectomy after testing positive for the BRCA gene. This gene mutation significantly increases the risk of developing ovarian and breast cancer.
Olivia credited an online test for calculating her 37% lifetime risk of breast cancer, leading to crucial early detection through further medical tests.
Understanding Breast Cancer Risk Assessment
The breast cancer risk assessment tool (BCRAT) is a quick and effective method used by medical professionals to predict the likelihood of developing breast cancer based on personal information.
Women with a risk of more than 1.67% are considered high risk, while those with a lifetime risk of 20% or more fall into the same category.
Importance of Screening and Early Detection
Regular mammograms play a vital role in the early detection of breast cancer, with the NHS offering free screenings every three years for women aged 50-71 in the UK.
Despite the benefits of early detection, a third of women in the UK missed breast cancer screenings last year, leading to concerns about undiagnosed cases.
Challenges in Treatment Access
Recent developments in breast cancer treatment, such as the drug Enhertu, have faced challenges in accessibility due to cost considerations. This drug has shown promising results in extending survival for women with advanced breast cancer.
However, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has raised concerns about the cost-effectiveness of this medication, potentially limiting access for patients in need.
