Celebrity disclosure prompts public discourse regarding appearance changes related to breast cancer care: a content analysis of Internet comments. (2nd January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gordon, Janna R.; Dial, Lauren A.; Mills, Sarah D.; Drizin, Julia H.; Barnes, Laura E.; Malcarne, Vanessa L.; Klonoff, Elizabeth; Vaughn, Allison; Wells, Kristen J.
• Is Part Of: Journal of communication in healthcare. Volume 13:Number 1(2020)
• Page Start: 64
• Page End: 71
• Publication Date: 2020-01-02
• Subjects: Breast neoplasms -- mastectomy -- appearance concerns -- body image -- celebrity disclosure -- online forum -- mass media -- online discussion; Communication in medicine -- Periodicals; Communication -- Periodicals; Health promotion -- Periodicals; 610.696
• DOI: 10.1080/17538068.2020.1755136
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1753-8068

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background: In an op-ed posted on the New York Times (NYT) website, Angelina Jolie disclosed that she carries the BRCA1 genetic mutation and received a preventive mastectomy. Studies have since demonstrated a positive impact of Ms. Jolie's disclosure on breast cancer-related health behaviors. This qualitative study used conventional content analysis of comments to the op-ed to explore intermediate outcomes of the disclosure; specifically, how the disclosure influenced public discourse regarding appearance changes related to breast cancer surgery. Method: After downloading all comments from the NYT website and using an iterative process to develop a standardized codebook, two researchers applied the codes using NVivo 10. Result: Five subthemes were identified in sixty-one comments discussing physical appearance or body image in the context of breast cancer treatment or preventive care: appearance versus health, perception of breast appearance following surgery, partner acceptance of appearance following surgery, beliefs about others' reactions regarding appearance, and beliefs about reconstructive surgery. While some commenters shared body image concerns following surgery, many were relieved to have undergone the procedure, valuing health over appearance. Most women stated that their romantic partners praised their appearance following surgery, although some worried about how they were perceived in public. Conclusion: This study clarifies how celebrity disclosures about cancer may influence intermediate outcomes (e.g. interpersonal communication and beliefs about appearance-related surgical outcomes) hypothesized to contribute to changes in cancer prevention and treatment behaviors. More research is needed to further elucidate the relationships between celebrity disclosure, intermediate outcomes, and behavioral outcomes.