US actress Olivia Munn has disclosed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, undergoing four operations in the past ten months, including a double mastectomy. The 43-year-old star of The Newsroom shared the news on Instagram, describing the cancer as 'aggressive' and 'fast moving', but noted it was caught early enough to allow treatment options.
Munn explained that she discovered the cancer after undergoing genetic testing and a mammogram, which initially returned negative results. However, her doctor calculated her breast cancer risk assessment score, leading to further tests, including a biopsy that revealed Luminal B cancer in both breasts. She wrote: 'Luminal B is an aggressive, fast moving cancer. Thirty days after that biopsy I had a double mastectomy.'
The actress, known for roles in Magic Mike, Iron Man 2, and X-Men: Apocalypse, attended the Oscars with her partner, comedian John Mulaney, three days before the announcement. The couple share a two-year-old son, Malcolm. Munn praised Mulaney for his support, saying he researched every operation and medication, and placed photos of their son in her hospital room.
UK charity Breast Cancer Now noted that while breast cancer is less common in younger women, about one in seven UK cases occur in women in their 40s. Sally Kum, the charity's associate director of nursing, urged women to know the signs and symptoms, including new lumps, skin changes, or nipple alterations, and to seek GP advice if concerned about family history.
