In today’s world, celebrities often use their platforms to shed light on important issues, including women’s health concerns. From breast cancer to mental health, these leading ladies are making significant strides in raising awareness and advocating for change. Let’s take a closer look at how these influential figures are making a difference.
1. Angelina Jolie – Breast Cancer Awareness
Angelina Jolie is not only a Hollywood icon but also a prominent advocate for breast cancer awareness. In 2013, Jolie opted for a preventive double mastectomy upon discovering she carried a BRCA1 gene mutation, elevating her breast cancer risk. By openly sharing her journey, Jolie has encouraged women worldwide to prioritize their health and consider genetic testing for breast cancer susceptibility.
According to MedPage Today, in 2013, there was a significant surge in the adoption of BRCA testing. This followed Angelina Jolie’s public revelation about her own BRCA1 mutation and subsequent decision to undergo a double mastectomy. This period, commonly referred to as the “Angelina Jolie Effect,” saw a remarkable 64% increase in genetic testing and a 2.5-fold rise in referrals to breast cancer genetics clinics worldwide.
Jolie’s example sparked widespread discussion about the predictive capabilities of genetic testing for cancer risk. It inspired many individuals to seek similar testing to better understand their own risk factors.
2. Demi Lovato – Mental Health Awareness
Demi Lovato has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, using her own experiences to spark conversations and break stigmas surrounding mental illness. Lovato has been open about her struggles with bipolar disorder, addiction, and eating disorders, inspiring others to seek help and prioritize their mental well-being. Through her music, activism, and candid interviews, Lovato continues to empower individuals to speak up and seek support for their mental health challenges.
BuzzFeed reports that Demi Lovato has long been an advocate for mental health, openly discussing personal struggles with addiction and mental wellness. Recently, the singer posted a photo on their Instagram story showing them in tears, accompanied by the caption, “Not every day is a good day, and that’s okay,” along with a hashtag for Mental Health Awareness Month.
During the pandemic, she launched The Mental Health Fund to offer crisis counseling to those impacted by COVID-19, collaborating with mental health groups.
3. Ferne McCann – Pelvic Organ Prolapse Awareness
Ferne McCann, a reality TV star and influencer, has become a vocal advocate for pelvic organ prolapse awareness. After giving birth to her daughter, McCann experienced symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, including pelvic organ prolapse.
She has since been transparent about her journey, sharing her experiences and encouraging other women to seek help and treatment for pelvic floor issues. McCann’s advocacy has helped raise awareness about pelvic organ prolapse and the importance of pelvic floor health. Her advocacy has sparked conversations and raised awareness about the challenges women face with POP and the importance of pelvic floor health.
Regarding treatment options, transvaginal mesh (TVM) implants have been widely used to address POP. However, concerns have arisen about the safety and efficacy of these implants, leading to numerous lawsuits. Plaintiffs in the transvaginal mesh lawsuit allege that TVM devices have caused severe complications, including chronic pain, organ perforation, infection, and mesh erosion.
TruLaw highlights manufacturers’ failure to warn about risks and misrepresentation of implant safety, leading to patient harm. Ferne McCann’s advocacy extends to supporting individuals affected by transvaginal mesh complications. She provides resources and guidance to navigate legal matters associated with pelvic organ prolapse treatment.
4. Kathy Bates – Ovarian Cancer Awareness
Award-winning actress Kathy Bates is a survivor of ovarian cancer and has been an outspoken advocate for raising awareness about the disease. Bates was diagnosed with stage II ovarian cancer in 2003 and underwent surgery and chemotherapy as part of her treatment. Since then, she has used her platform to educate women about the symptoms of ovarian cancer and the importance of early detection.
Bates’ advocacy has helped shine a spotlight on ovarian cancer. She encourages women to listen to their bodies and seek medical attention if they experience any warning signs.
5. Beyoncé – Maternal Health
Beyoncé, one of the world’s most influential musicians, has been actively involved in advocating for maternal health initiatives. Following the birth of her twins in 2017, Beyoncé shared her own difficult childbirth experience. She revealed that she suffered from preeclampsia and had to undergo an emergency cesarean section.
Through her advocacy work, Beyoncé has raised awareness about the maternal mortality crisis, particularly among Black women who are disproportionately affected.
In 2021, the CDC reported that the maternal mortality rate among non-Hispanic Black women stood at 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births. This rate was 2.6 times higher than that for non-Hispanic White women, which was recorded at 26.6 deaths. Additionally, the maternal mortality rates for Black women were notably higher compared to rates for White and Hispanic women.
Beyoncé has supported organizations and initiatives aimed at improving access to maternal healthcare and reducing maternal mortality rates worldwide.
6. Marcia Cross – Cervical Cancer Awareness
Actress Marcia Cross became a prominent advocate for cervical cancer awareness after being diagnosed with the disease herself. In 2018, Cross revealed that she had been diagnosed with anal cancer. This condition was linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV), the same virus that can cause cervical cancer.
Since then, Cross has been vocal about the importance of HPV vaccination and regular cervical cancer screenings for women. She has used her experience to educate others about the risks of HPV-related cancers and the importance of early detection and prevention efforts.
According to PR Newswire, Marcia Cross serves as the President and Co-Founder of the HPV Cancers Alliance. She established this organization following her own experience with HPV-associated anal cancer. In her speech titled “WD2023: The Place to Make Noise,” delivered in June 2023, Marcia Cross urged advocates and organizations to devise innovative strategies.
She emphasized the importance of delivering HPV-related education, vaccination, screening, and treatment within their communities.
In conclusion, these leading ladies are using their platforms to raise awareness and advocate for women’s health concerns. They inspire others to take charge of their health and seek support when needed. Through their bravery, openness, and activism, they are making a significant impact on women’s health initiatives worldwide. As we continue to celebrate their contributions, let us also remember to prioritize our own health and well-being. Awareness and advocacy can lead to positive change.
