In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed annually in October, British actress Elizabeth Hurley, known for her role in the “Austin Powers” films, is encouraging young women around the world to be proactive about prioritizing their breast health.
In a recent interview with Extra, published on Oct. 4, the 59-year-old model reflected on how losing her grandmother to breast cancer in 1992 fueled her dedication to raising awareness about the disease, particularly among younger generations.
“When my grandmother had been diagnosed and was being treated—and of course ultimately died, we too didn’t really talk about it. There was no conversation about breast cancer at that time,” Hurley said.
“I just know that had she been diagnosed today, everything would just be so different. You know, now women are told about the importance of early detection.”
However, Hurley—who has served as the global ambassador for the Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign for almost 30 years—says more work still needs to be done.
Becoming ‘Breast Aware’
According to recent findings from the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri, there has been a notable rise in breast cancer cases among women 50 years of age or younger over the past 20 years.
The study, published in the medical journal JAMA Network Open on Jan. 26, also identified a growing prevalence of estrogen-receptor-positive tumors among women—a type of breast cancer that is characterized by elevated estrogen levels within the cancerous cells.
“A lot of people know about breast cancer ... but particularly with younger women who think, ‘Well, I’m not going to get it—only older women do.’ Well, we now know that’s not true,” Hurley said during a recent appearance on the “Today” show, aired on Oct. 2.
The “Strictly Confidential” star highlighted the Estée Lauder Companies’ latest initiative for its breast cancer campaign, “Breast Care is Self-Care,” which focuses on “prevention, early detection, and education to empower women as advocates for their breast health,” according to a statement issued on Oct. 1.
The cosmetics brand launched a new section of its website as part of the initiative. This section outlines steps that women can take to minimize their risk of developing the disease and improve the chances of early detection, such as conducting a self-risk analysis and monthly self-check exam, as well as nutritional and exercise guidance.“They can learn about putting themselves in the best position they can as a preventative measure and giving themselves information,” Hurley said.
Searching for a Cure
In partnership with the Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign, which was launched in 1992, the Empire State Building was lit up pink on Oct. 1 to raise awareness for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Hurley—who shares son Damian Hurley, 22, with businessman Steve Bing—took to Instagram over the weekend to convey her appreciation to The Big Apple for supporting the important cause.
Although there have been notable improvements in breast cancer detection, treatment, and awareness, the “Gossip Girl” actress noted in an earlier Instagram post that women are still losing their lives to the disease every day. As a result, Hurley said, she is dedicated to remaining steadfast in her mission.
“As the Global Ambassador of the Estée Lauder Companies Breast Cancer Campaign, I promise you that we will continue to raise money for research until a cure is found.”
