More than a decade later, Jolie’s disclosure remains one of the most powerful public health moments. It brought BRCA testing, preventive mastectomies, and hereditary cancer awareness to the mainstream. Here’s how her story impacted medical decisions, family health discussions, and preventive care, especially for women at risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
What Is the BRCA Gene?
The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are responsible for repairing damaged DNA and preventing uncontrolled cell growth. Mutations in these genes significantly increase the lifetime risk of breast, ovarian, and other cancers.
- BRCA1 mutation: Raises breast cancer risk up to 72% and ovarian cancer up to 44%.
- BRCA2 mutation: Increases breast cancer risk and also raises the risk for prostate, pancreatic, and male breast cancer.
Angelina Jolie carried a BRCA1 mutation. Her doctors estimated her breast cancer risk at 87% and ovarian cancer risk at 50%.
What Did Angelina Jolie Do After Her BRCA Diagnosis?
Jolie opted for a preventive double mastectomy, followed later by preventive oophorectomy (removal of ovaries). These proactive surgeries are common options for individuals at high genetic risk.
Her actions brought visibility to:
- Preventive surgery as a valid health choice
- The importance of genetic counseling and BRCA testing
- The role of informed decision-making in hereditary cancer prevention
The Global Impact: The “Angelina Jolie Effect”
The media dubbed the rise in BRCA testing and awareness as the “Angelina Jolie Effect.” According to multiple studies:
- Genetic testing rates increased by up to 64% in the months following her op-ed
- More women discussed family history and cancer risk with their doctors
- Public awareness of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer surged worldwide
In India, too, her story sparked conversations in urban healthcare settings about the importance of BRCA testing for women with a family history of cancer.
Who Should Consider BRCA Testing?
If you relate to any of the following, BRCA testing may be right for you:
- A personal or family history of breast, ovarian, prostate, or pancreatic cancer
- Breast cancer diagnosed before age 45
- A male family member with breast cancer
- Known BRCA mutation in the family
- Belonging to a high-risk group (e.g., Ashkenazi Jewish or specific Indian communities)
Why Angelina Jolie’s Story Matters for Families
Jolie’s story emphasized that genetic mutations can be inherited from either parent and affect both men and women. She also highlighted the emotional, physical, and psychological aspects of preventive treatment, helping normalize:
- Genetic testing for cancer risk
- Open family discussions about hereditary health
- Making informed choices about surveillance, surgery, or lifestyle changes
BRCA Testing at NM Medical – Empowering Informed Choices
At NM Medical, we offer reliable, accessible BRCA testing and genetic counseling:
- Available in Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Nashik
- Testing starts at ₹12,000
- Conducted in NABL accredited labs.
- Includes expert genetic counselors to help interpret results
Knowing your BRCA status can lead to life-saving decisions—just like it did for Angelina Jolie.
Take the First Step: Know Your Risk
Angelina Jolie’s story showed the world that knowledge is power when it comes to hereditary cancer prevention. Today, that same choice is available to you.
