Why did Angelina Jolie have a double mastectomy?

Angelina Jolie had a double mastectomy in 2013 as a preventive measure after discovering she had a high risk of developing breast cancer due to the BRCA1 gene.

What is Angelina Jolie advocating for regarding breast health?

Jolie is advocating for accessible and affordable genetic testing and screenings for all women, emphasizing informed healthcare choices.

When did Angelina Jolie first reveal her mastectomy scars?

Angelina Jolie publicly revealed her mastectomy scars for the first time in an interview with TIME France, published around December 2025.

Home / Health / Jolie Shares Mastectomy Scars: 'My Scars Unite Me With Women'

Jolie Shares Mastectomy Scars: 'My Scars Unite Me With Women'

16 Dec

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Summary

Angelina Jolie revealed her mastectomy scars to TIME France.
She underwent a double mastectomy in 2013 due to a BRCA1 gene.
Jolie advocates for accessible breast health screenings for all women.

Jolie Shares Mastectomy Scars: 'My Scars Unite Me With Women'

Angelina Jolie has chosen to reveal her mastectomy scars in a recent interview, marking a significant personal step.

She explained to TIME France that her decision stems from a desire to connect with other women, stating, "I share these scars with many women I love." Jolie underwent a preventive double mastectomy in 2013 after learning she carried the BRCA1 gene, which greatly elevated her risk of breast cancer.

Beyond personal disclosure, Jolie is using this platform to advocate for broader healthcare access. She champions making genetic testing and screenings affordable and available to all women, particularly those with risk factors or family histories of cancer. Her message stresses that healthcare decisions must be personal and informed.