The number of women who are opting for preventive mastectomies has drastically increased in recent years. Angelina Jolie revealed that she underwent a double mastectomy after learning she had a mutation of the BRCA1 gene. This genetic mutation raises the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
Why are so many women opting for surgery when survival rates for breast cancer are extremely high when caught at the earliest stages?
Not only that, but the operation doesn't give a 100% guarantee that cancer will never develop; so Is it worth losing both of your breasts?
Dr. Niki Barr, PhD, author of, Emotional Wellness: The Other Half of Treating Cancer, speaks about the BRCA gene testing, the removal and reconstruction procedures, and the other options that women have besides surgery.
Preventative Mastectomy & Emotional Healing
Guest
: Niki Barr, PhD
From the Show: Staying Well
Summary: Angelina Jolie revealed she had her breasts removed to reduce her risk of breast and ovarian cancers. But was that the right choice?
Air Date: 5/20/13
Duration: 10
Host: Melanie Cole, MS
