Olivia Munn Reveals How an Online Tool Detected Her High Breast Cancer Risk

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ICARO Media Group
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17/04/2024 19h27

Olivia Munn, the renowned actress, recently shared her breast cancer journey and emphasized the crucial role an online tool played in saving her life. Despite earlier testing negative for the BRCA cancer gene, Munn discovered her high breast cancer risk through a free Tyrer-Cuzick risk assessment calculator.

In an interview with People magazine, Munn expressed her initial disbelief regarding her breast cancer diagnosis, as she had already undergone various tests. However, it was during her annual mammogram in March 2023 that her doctor inquired about her lifetime breast cancer risk, which prompted Munn to acknowledge her lack of knowledge in this area.

Determined to find answers, Munn turned to the free online tool called a Tyrer-Cuzick risk assessment calculator. By considering factors such as her age at her first period and her family's history of breast cancer, the calculator evaluated Munn's breast cancer risk and generated a score. Astonishingly, Munn scored 37.3%, marking her as high-risk, with any score over 20% considered significant.

Concerned about the potential threat, Munn's doctor ordered an MRI, which discovered a spot in her right breast dangerously close to her lymph nodes. Additional ultrasounds unveiled two more tumors in her right breast, subsequently confirmed to be stage 1 invasive cancer through biopsies. Further analysis of her original MRI also revealed cancer in her left breast.

Reflecting on her journey, Munn revealed the emotional and physical toll it took on her. She acknowledged that despite attempting to prepare herself for the battle, nothing could have fully equipped her for the challenges that lay ahead.

Throughout her surgeries and treatment, Munn decided to keep her diagnosis private until she had passed some of the toughest phases. She shared that relying on partner John Mulaney's unwavering support was invaluable during this time, as he balanced being a hands-on father to their 2-year-old son, Malcolm, while accompanying her to hospital visits and providing constant assistance.

Munn also discussed the impact of hormone suppression therapy, which she initiated in November to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. She disclosed experiencing medically-induced menopause, accompanied by symptoms such as temperature fluctuations, hair thinning, and fatigue. Nevertheless, Munn expressed gratitude for the opportunity to fight and emphasized that her role as a mother to Malcolm was what mattered most to her.

The actress's candid and heartfelt revelation about her breast cancer journey and the significant role played by the online risk assessment tool serves as a vital reminder for individuals to be proactive in monitoring their health and understanding their risk factors. Munn's experience highlights the importance of utilizing available resources to empower oneself and potentially identify health concerns early on.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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