Breast cancer is a disease that knows no boundaries.
It’s a life-changing diagnosis that can turn anyone’s world upside down, yet amid the uncertainty, fear, and challenges, stories of strength and resilience emerge. While the statistics surrounding breast cancer may be daunting, the stories of survival and advocacy remind us that there is hope.
Among those who have faced the fight against breast cancer head-on are numerous celebrities who have bravely shared their journeys. By using their platforms to highlight their experiences, these inspiring women not only break down the stigma surrounding breast cancer but also provide hope and inspiration to millions facing the same diagnosis.
Below are brief stories of some of these inspiring women who have shared their battles, bringing awareness and hope to others.
Azifah Zainon Abidin, 60 - Actress
Known for her roles in Istidraj and Tujuh Warna Pelangi, Nor Azifah Zainon Abidin was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. According to local media sources, she has undergone six rounds of chemotherapy and had surgery to remove cancer cells in her breast earlier this year.
Though her health has stabilised, she still requires five more rounds of chemotherapy. The mother of five has expressed her gratitude for the financial support she received from the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and Persatuan Kebajikan Artis Veteran Malaysia. Despite her challenges, Azifah remains hopeful as she continues her treatment journey.
Tun Dr Siti Hasmah, 98 - Public Figure
Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, wife of the former Malaysian Prime Minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, is a breast cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with a small tumour in her left breast after a routine mammogram.
Her immediate action of undergoing surgery reflects her belief in the importance of early detection. Dr Siti Hasmah has since urged women not to fear screenings, emphasising that breast cancer can strike at any age, and early treatment increases the chances of recovery. She remains an advocate for health awareness and preventative care.
Kartini Kamalul Ariffin, 46 - TV Host & Radio Presenter
A fighter of stage one breast cancer, Dr. Kartini Kamalul Ariffin discovered a lump in her breast less than a year after a routine mammogram. Known for hosting 3R and being a presenter on Hot.fm, she initially struggled with the diagnosis, questioning her healthy lifestyle.
Her battle against the disease was compounded by her mother’s history with breast cancer. Despite the emotional toll, Kartini has since embraced her journey, using social media to share her story and inspire others. She successfully completed her PhD during this challenging time, demonstrating incredible resilience.
Olivia Munn, 44 - American actress
In early 2024, Olivia Munn disclosed that she had been battling breast cancer since the previous year. Her journey began after a routine mammogram revealed concerns that led her physician to order an MRI, due to her family history and other contributing risk factors. The MRI's findings necessitated further tests, including an ultrasound and biopsy, which ultimately diagnosed her with Luminal B breast cancer, a particularly aggressive form.
Just a month after receiving the diagnosis, Munn made the decision to undergo a bilateral mastectomy. By sharing her story so candidly, she has inspired many to engage in conversations with their doctors about their own risks and the importance of additional screenings when necessary. Munn attributes her timely intervention and survival to her doctor's foresight and the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Score.
Christina Applegate, 52 - American actress
Christina Applegate's breast cancer journey began in 2008 when, at the age of 36, an MRI revealed early-stage breast cancer due to her dense breast tissue, which a standard mammogram had missed. Further genetic testing showed that she carried the BRCA1 gene, significantly increasing her cancer risk.
Faced with her options, Applegate chose to undergo a bilateral mastectomy to prevent the cancer from spreading. Reflecting on her decision, she stressed that while radiation was a temporary solution, she wanted to eliminate the possibility of the cancer returning. Since her surgery, Applegate has become an advocate for MRI screenings and genetic testing, urging women to be proactive about their breast health.
Mary J. Blige, 53 - American singer-songwriter and rapper
Mary J. Blige, the renowned singer-songwriter and actress, has been a strong advocate about her experience for breast cancer awareness, especially highlighting its impact on Black women. She has emphasised the importance of regular mammograms and brought attention to the health disparities Black women face, such as limited access to quality care and mistrust of the medical system. Blige’s advocacy efforts are partly motivated by her personal experiences and a family history of cancer, which raised her awareness about early detection only later in life.
Through collaborations with organisations like the Black Women’s Health Imperative and campaigns with Hologic, Blige has focused on the unique challenges that Black women encounter in breast cancer care. She has aimed to create greater awareness of the need for improved research, better healthcare access, and conversations around preventive screenings, stressing that proactive health measures can help save lives and address racial disparities in healthcare
Kylie Minogue, 56 - Australian singer and actress
Kylie Minogue was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer in 2005, at the age of 39, following a misdiagnosis that initially cleared her. The experience taught her the importance of trusting one's instincts when it comes to health, as her initial mammogram failed to detect the cancerous lump. Soon after discovering the lump, Minogue underwent surgery and began chemotherapy treatment.
While she has been in remission since 2006, Minogue has spoken about the lingering impact of the diagnosis, describing it as a trauma that stays with her even after nearly two decades. Her journey also brought the difficult realisation that she might not be able to have children, a reality she has come to accept with a sense of philosophical reflection. Minogue’s experience has turned her into a vocal advocate for early diagnosis and prompt treatment for women facing similar battles.
Cynthia Nixon, 58 – American Actress
Best known for her role as Miranda Hobbes on Sex and the City, Cynthia Nixon was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006, though she kept her diagnosis private while undergoing treatment. Nixon’s connection to breast cancer was personal—her mother, Ann, had successfully battled the disease when Nixon was 12 years old.
During a routine mammogram, Nixon’s doctor discovered a small tumour in her right breast. Fortunately, the cancer was caught early, and she underwent a lumpectomy followed by six-and-a-half weeks of radiation therapy.
While maintaining her acting career, Nixon stayed strong for her loved ones, especially her children, ensuring they understood the situation without causing unnecessary fear. Her partner, Christine Marinoni, was also deeply affected but supported Nixon throughout her journey.
Nixon now actively raises awareness about breast cancer as part of the Susan G. Komen organisation, helping to educate women globally about the importance of early detection and treatment options.
Sheryl Crow, 62 - American singer and musician
In 2006, Sheryl Crow was diagnosed with estrogen-positive stage 1 invasive breast cancer after a routine mammogram revealed a lump. She underwent a biopsy, followed by a lumpectomy, and completed seven weeks of radiation treatment. This diagnosis marked a turning point in Crow's life, prompting her to prioritise her health and well-being over the needs of others.
Crow's battle with breast cancer was a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Despite not having a family history of the disease, her dense breast tissue put her at an increased risk. Her experience highlighted the importance of listening to her body, learning to set boundaries, and taking time for herself. Since going into remission, Crow has used her platform to raise awareness about breast cancer risk factors and the significance of early detection.
Now cancer-free, she reflects on how surviving breast cancer has enriched her life, deepening her appreciation for the present and allowing her to focus on what truly matters. Crow continues to advocate for preventive health screenings, encouraging women to be proactive about their health, as showcased in the documentary "Sheryl," where she emphasises the importance of self-advocacy and awareness in managing one's health.
These brave women have shared their stories not only to raise awareness but also to inspire others facing similar struggles. Their resilience continues to highlight the importance of early detection and support during the journey of battling breast cancer.