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Cancer

Actress Kara Tointon Reveals Double Mastectomy After Genes Test

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Kara Tointon, a British actress known for her roles in EastEnders and Strictly Come Dancing, has spoken out about undergoing a double mastectomy after discovering she carried the BRCA gene. The soap star, 41, made the decision to have the preventative surgery after her mother's death from ovarian cancer and subsequent genetic testing revealed she carried the gene, which increases her risk of developing both breast and ovarian cancer. Working with the Eve Appeal, a gynaecological cancer charity, Tointon shared her story on Instagram to raise awareness of the importance of genetic testing and preventative measures.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kara Tointon, a 41-year-old British actress, has revealed she underwent a double mastectomy after discovering she carried the BRCA gene, which increases her risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
  • Tointon's mother, Carol, died from ovarian cancer in 2019, and genetic testing revealed that both Tointon and her mother carried the BRCA gene.
  • The BRCA gene is a genetic mutation that affects one in 1,000 women across the UK, and Tointon underwent two preventative surgeries, including a double mastectomy and a prosthetic ovaries removal.
  • Tointon's decision to undergo surgery was influenced by her experience of having regular surveillance and biopsies, which she found to be emotionally taxing.
  • The actress is an ambassador for the Eve Appeal, a gynaecological cancer charity, and is using her platform to raise awareness of the importance of genetic testing and preventative measures.
  • Tointon's story follows in the footsteps of Hollywood star Angelina Jolie, who underwent a double mastectomy after discovering she carried the BRCA1 gene.

Statistics:

  • One in 1,000 women across the UK have a BRCA1 variant (source: CPS, 2020)
  • Around 7% of breast cancers occur in women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation (source: Cancer Research UK)
  • Ovarian cancer is the 16th most common cancer in the UK, and the third most common cause of cancer deaths in women (source: Cancer Research UK)
  • Genetic testing is recommended for individuals with a family history of breast, ovarian, or other cancers (source: NICE)

Sources:

  • CPS (2020): Inherited breast cancer and breast cancer before 40 years
  • Cancer Research UK (n.d.): BRCA and ovarian cancer
  • NICE (n.d.): Familial breast cancer and familial ovarian cancer: early planning and management

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