Breast cancer screening increases because of ‘Angelina Jolie effect’

The number of women who seek genetic counseling for certain mutations associated with higher risks of developing breast cancer increased after Angelina Jolie made a public announcement that she had a double mastectomy.

by John Tyburski

Copyright © Daily Digest News, KPR Media, LLC. All rights reserved.

First published at Daily Digest News on September 18, 2014

Never underestimate the influence of star power. In May of last year, big-name Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie revealed that she had both of her breasts surgically removed after being told she carries a genetic mutation that causes an 87 percent chance of developing breast cancer. A new study published in the journal Breast Cancer Research has since found that the news encouraged more women to seek medical advice about genetic testing and mastectomies.

The prophylactic mastectomy has been an option for women who possess mutations in key breast cancer genes that when present, increase their likelihood for the disease to a near certainty. Because breast cancer prognosis can be so poor, having a risk-increasing mutation is enough for some women to opt for the surgery.

Even so, many women struggle with the idea of having their breasts removed. Electing to have a body part removed is an extremely difficult decision, no matter which part is in question. In addition, many women worry that they will diminish in attractiveness and loose a major component of their sexuality after having their breasts removed. Angelina Jolie opening up about her mastectomy has helped some women overcome these challenges.

“The Angelina Jolie effect has been long-lasting and global, and appears to have increased referrals to centres appropriately,” said a research team led by Gareth Evans of the University of Manchester.

The team of researchers measured referrals to over 20 genetic testing centers and clinics in the UK after Jolie’s May 2013 announcement. The number of referrals for genetic counseling and DNA tests for breast cancer-specific mutations was up roughly 250 percent in the two months following the announcement. The referral numbers remained twice that of the prior year over the next several months.

“Angelina Jolie stating she has a BRCA1 mutation and going on to have a risk-reducing mastectomy is likely to have had a bigger impact than other celebrity announcements, possibly due to her image as a glamorous and strong woman,” said Evans.

Most breast cancer cases are sporadic, meaning the causes are unknown. However, roughly five percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer each year carry mutations in one or more of the genes BRCA1, BRCA2, and TP53, all of which are key breast cancer genes. When any of these genes are mutated, the risk for breast cancer in the carrier increases dramatically. Removing the breast tissue is one effective prophylactic method.