Popular actress Olivia Munn recently took to Instagram to share her breast cancer journey in a deeply personal post. Despite testing negative for breast cancer genes and getting a clean mammogram just months prior, Munn was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer through additional screening. In her emotional post, Munn explained how in early 2023 she decided to get genetic testing to be proactive about her health. Both she and her sister tested negative for BRCA and other cancer genes. Munn then had a normal mammogram that gave her a false sense of security. However, due to her family history and age, her doctor recommended calculating her breast cancer risk score.
This score looked at various risk factors and flagged Munn for additional screening. An MRI found abnormalities that led to an ultrasound and biopsy, revealing Stage 2 Luminal B breast cancer in both breasts. This cancer is known to be fast-growing, yet Munn caught it early through her doctor’s extra precaution. She has since undergone multiple surgeries, including a double mastectomy, and chemotherapy.
Munn is sharing her story to encourage other women to advocate for themselves. Despite following recommended screening, the additional test was what caught her cancer. She counts herself lucky to have caught it in time for treatment. Munn’s experience highlights the importance of understanding individual risk factors beyond just mammograms. Her inspiring message is bringing comfort and hope to many facing their own health journeys.
