In a powerful and vulnerable announcement, Jessie J shared that she was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer before the release of her new album, No Secrets. “I’m highlighting the word ‘early,’” she said in a video posted to Instagram. “Cancer sucks in any form, but I’m holding onto the word ‘early.’”
© GettyThe singer, 36, didn’t go into full details but made it clear she’s been quietly undergoing tests and treatment for the last 9 weeks. “I have been in and out of tests throughout this whole period,” she said, adding that she was going back and forth deciding on if she should share the news with the world, but decided to share it with fans because she needed "their love and support" and hasn't been talking about it or processing it because she's been working so hard.
The singer said that thinking about others in her position has taken an emotional toll. "It breaks my heart that other people are going through so much similar, and worse. That’s the bit that kills me,” she said.
Looking on the bright side, she quipped, "I'm getting to keep my nipples - that's good." "It's a very dramatic way to get a boob job" she added before explaining she was going to be away from the public after the Summertime Ball on June 15 to have surgery promising, "I will come back with massive tits and more music."
© GettyShe also touched on the irony of the songs she released titled "No Secrets" and "Living My Best Life." "No (more) Secrets, and is it too soon to do a remix called ‘Living my breast life’?" she quipped in the caption.
When should women start getting screened for breast cancer?
According to the American Cancer Society, women at average risk should start annual mammograms at age 40. However, earlier screenings might be recommended if you have a family history or other risk factors.
