The Alarming Rise in Women Opting for Double Mastectomies: The Angelina Jolie Effect

Thousands of women in the UK are choosing to have both of their bre-sts removed unnecessarily, believing it will prevent cancer recurrence, according to researchers.

This trend, known as the ‘Angelina Jolie' effect, has seen a significant increase since the actress publicly announced her own double mastectomy in 2013.

Currently, around 4,000 British women undergo this procedure annually, hoping it will reduce the risk of cancer in their healthy bre-st.

However, there is no scientific evidence supporting the notion that it prevents cancer from spreading in women without an underlying cancer risk, such as Jolie.

A recent survey conducted in the United States revealed that when physicians did not advise against it, one in five women chose to have a double mastectomy.

This procedure can lead to severe complications, including depression.

Dr. Reshma Jagsi, a bre-st cancer specialist, urges surgeons to discourage patients from unnecessary operations.

Double mastectomies can be beneficial for women who have a genetic predisposition to bre-st cancer.

However, without a high genetic risk for a second primary bre-st cancer, patients are still opting for this surgery at an alarmingly high rate.

Dr. Jagsi emphasizes the importance of open communication between surgeons and patients, ensuring clear recommendations and promoting peace of mind by highlighting other treatments that complement surgery, reducing the risk of tumor recurrence and subsequent cancer development.

Angelina Jolie's decision to undergo a double mastectomy was driven by her 87% risk of developing bre-st cancer due to a defective BRCA1 gene and a family history of the disease.

Her mother, maternal grandmother, and aunt all passed away from bre-st or ovarian cancer in their late 40s or 50s.

Following her mastectomy, Jolie also had her ovaries removed.

Notable figures like Sharon Osbourne, judge on X-Factor, and Oscar-winning actress Kathy Bates have also chosen to undergo this procedure.

However, it is crucial for women to understand the individual circumstances surrounding their own risk factors before making such a life-altering decision.