Comedian reveals 85 percent breast cancer risk led to preventive double mastectomy
"She looked at all my genetics and all of everything that they tested for, and she was who deemed that I had an 85% chance of breast cancer and a 65% chance of ovarian cancer. So I'm doing the ovaries soon, but I haven't done them yet. And I did the boobs first."
About this episode
Comedian and actress Jackie Tohn revealed intimate details of her preventive cancer surgery journey on this podcast episode, disclosing that genetic testing identified she carries the BRCA gene mutation giving her an 85% chance of developing breast cancer and a 65% chance of ovarian cancer. After receiving the diagnosis from a genetic counselor at Providence, Tohn underwent a preventive double mastectomy and plans ovarian removal surgery soon. The conversation covered the complex medical coordination required, including consultations with five separate specialists: a gynecological oncologist, a regular oncologist, a breast surgeon, a breast plastic surgeon, and a genetic counselor. Tohn described receiving concerning MRI results while en route to present at the Creative Arts Emmys, yet proceeding to deliver her presentation despite the fear. She reflected on her ability to compartmentalize extreme stress, comparing herself to a machine and questioning whether her response bordered on psychological detachment. The episode included discussion of a frightening complication when Tohn began bleeding profusely in the waiting room after a breast biopsy, requiring emergency restitching. She criticized the lack of public awareness about BRCA testing, noting she reached her 40s without understanding the genetic risk despite vague awareness of Angelina Jolie's preventive surgeries. Tohn emphasized that ovarian cancer screening remains inadequate compared to breast surveillance technology, and expressed frustration that doctors provided minimal guidance after her positive genetic test. The conversation mixed serious medical revelation with dark humor as Tohn and the hosts processed the gravity of her health journey.
Key takeaways
- Jackie Tohn disclosed genetic testing revealed 85% breast cancer risk and 65% ovarian cancer risk from BRCA gene mutation, leading to preventive double mastectomy.
- Tohn presented at the Creative Arts Emmys immediately after receiving concerning MRI results showing suspicious cellular groupings requiring additional testing.
- The actress described coordinating with five different medical specialists including gynecological oncologist and two separate breast surgeons for the prophylactic procedures.
- Tohn experienced a frightening medical complication when she began bleeding profusely after a breast biopsy, requiring emergency restitching in a hospital office.
- She criticized lack of public education about BRCA testing, noting she reached age 40 without understanding hereditary cancer risk despite Angelina Jolie's publicized surgeries.
- Tohn emphasized ovarian cancer screening technology remains inadequate compared to breast surveillance, with no reliable early detection methods available in 2026.
- The comedian reflected on extreme psychological compartmentalization during her health crisis, questioning whether her ability to function bordered on sociopathy.