Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020, nearly one in six total deaths. Just in 2022 there were an estimated 20 million new cancer cases. Even more alarming is that Iowa has the second-highest and fastest-rising incidence of cancer among all states in the United States.

About 1 in 5 people develop cancer in their lifetime, approximately 1 in 9 men and 1 in 12 women die from the disease. While the earliest recordings of cancer date back to about 3000 BC, the disease has only become a common topic for the past few decades. 

While some demographics garner a higher cancer risk than others, cancer in young adults is considered rare. Sadly people young and old, rich and poor, are diagnosed with cancer every day— the disease doesn’t discriminate. 

The news of cancer diagnosis is often deeply surprising; yet, when a celebrity is diagnosed it somehow seems even more unexpected. Senior Kyle Almgren shared his own experience. “I usually have more of a reaction when celebrities share a diagnosis…I find seeing people in the spotlight appear to have perfect lives becoming sick is more shocking to society,” Almgren explained.

Society puts celebrities on a pedestal, characterizing them as immune to the risks everyone faces, including cancer. 

This became apparent when  Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, shared in a video announcement that she was undergoing treatment for cancer. This shocking news came after recent rumors about her health and wellbeing.

Though putting celebrities on this pedestal is unreasonable, it usually brings awareness to different conditions. Celebrities have to navigate the hard reality of facing their illness along with a harsh spotlight. Senior Chloe Chamberlin understands how difficult this can be for public figures. “It’s definitely harder facing illness publicly but I feel many celebrities try to keep it private,” she shared.

Constantly being observed by the public can cause fans to ask questions by some things as simple as weight or look changes. Even though dealing with being in the spotlight during tough times is demanding on celebrities, it helps the public. They often raise awareness to the importance of screenings and early diagnosis and can help save many lives.

Chamberlin added “Now knowing the benefits, I feel more celebrities should come out with their diagnosis, only if comfortable, to promote the illness to getting the help needed.”

American actress Oliva Munn recently shared her breast cancer diagnosis. In an Instagram post, she wrote, “I hope by sharing this it will help others find comfort, inspiration and support on their own journey.”

It’s the bravery from celebrities like Olivia Munn and Princess Kate that helps the lives of others. Being transparent and honest isn’t easy in hard times, but it creates communities supporting each other and leads to a safer world.