Celebrity Actresses who Battled Breast Cancer and Advocated Awareness

Celebrity Actresses Who Have Fought Breast Cancer

Breast cancer does not discriminate - it can affect anyone. Many famous and beloved actresses have shared their own battles with breast cancer publicly in hopes to raise awareness. Their influence and star power have brought attention to early detection and inspired millions fighting the disease.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus

In 2017, the iconic TV actress known for her roles in Seinfeld and Veep revealed her diagnosis of breast cancer. She documented her chemotherapy journey on social media. After surgery and treatment, Louis-Dreyfus happily announced she was cancer-free the following year.

Christina Applegate

Christina Applegate, renowned for acting in Married... with Children and Dead to Me, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008. She underwent a double mastectomy and reconstruction. Applegate founded Right Action for Women to pay for MRI scans for women at high risk for breast cancer.

Cynthia Nixon

Sex and the City star Nixon publicly shared her breast cancer diagnosis in 2006 when it was caught early at age 40. Following radiation, chemotherapy and a lumpectomy, Nixon has been cancer free for over a decade and continues to be a breast cancer activist.

Wanda Sykes

Comedian Wanda Sykes elected to get a preventative double mastectomy in 2011 after being diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). When caught and removed early, DCIS has a very high cure rate for breast cancer. Sykes has spread awareness on routine cancer screenings.

Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness

In addition to battling their own breast cancer diagnoses, these famous actresses have also championed awareness campaigns and fundraising efforts:

Melissa Etheridge

Grammy award winning singer Melissa Etheridge was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004 at age 43 and underwent chemotherapy and surgery. She performs at cancer fundraisers and openly speaks about her breast reconstruction procedures.

Kylie Minogue

Australian pop star Minogue was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 36 in 2005. After surgery and chemotherapy, she returned to the stage in 2006 and held concerts to raise money for charities. Minogue continues advocating for cancer screening and research.

Sheryl Crow

Rocker singer Sheryl Crow had a lumpectomy and radiation in 2006 to treat her breast cancer caught at 44 years old. Her cancer foundation supports research and services for cancer patients including Ride 2 Recovery, Stand Up 2 Cancer and Pathfinder International.

Rita Wilson

In 2015, actress and singer Rita Wilson underwent a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery for invasive lobular carcinoma. Her husband Tom Hanks was very supportive as she recovered after chemotherapy. Wilson believes her cancer was caught early by a second opinion.

Lifesaving Awareness on Breast Cancer

These celebrities utilized their wide fan following and media presence to increase attention on breast cancer. Through openly sharing details of their own struggles, diagnosis and treatment, they have transformed millions of lives across the globe.

Actress Angelina Jolie made headlines by deciding to have preventative double mastectomy when genetic testing showed she had over 80% risk of getting breast cancer. Her bold decision inspired many high risk women to take action early.

Breast cancer mortality rates have fallen by 40% as more cases are caught early through screening and awareness. These famous actresses have played a key role in empowering women worldwide to take control of their breast health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.