The Jolie effect, Bianca Balti and the discussion about illness online

Bianca Balti is currently facing ovarian cancer, a battle she disclosed on Instagram about a month and a half ago. "Last Sunday, I went to the emergency room and discovered that my lower abdominal pain was stage 3 ovarian cancer," she wrote. "It’s been a week full of tears but also love, hope, laughter, and strength. I have a long journey ahead, but I know I’ll overcome this. For myself, for the people I love (my daughters at the top of that list), and for everyone who needs strength: I’m lending you some of mine, because I have plenty." Since then, she’s shared a series of posts, including one where she, in anticipation of the effects of treatment, shaved her hair to face it head-on.

Social Reactions to Bianca Balti’s Posts on Her Illness

Despite her positive messages, amid many admiring and encouraging comments that highlight her beauty, honesty, and infectious optimism, some weren’t supportive. Critics take issue, in particular, with her portrayal of cancer as a battle to be won, which might imply that those who succumb are weak or somehow less capable. Others point out her unmentioned privilege in tackling a serious illness from a place of financial security, without fear of losing her job or going bankrupt over medical expenses, allowing her access to top specialists. Some even questioned the usefulness or potential irritation of such posts, rather than seeing them as motivational.

The Perspective of Doctors

Another perspective is provided by breast specialist Alberta Ferrari, who shared on Instagram, quoting “Elisabetta, a psycho-oncologist expert in BRCA”: “The so-called Jolie effect led to a notable increase in genetic counseling among women, heightening awareness about genetic risks... and is this a bad example to follow? Regarding risk-reduction choices, Jolie chose both surgeries, not just mastectomy. Balti was considering it, sharing her journey and concerns openly, and surely was well-informed about the risks and limits of ovarian monitoring from a medical standpoint. But the choice is always individual and not easy to make.” She concluded: “Enough with these headlines that instill guilt and oversimplify a complex issue. These are women who, upon learning of a pathogenic mutation in their families, chose to know, made independent, informed choices, and publicly shared their journey because, as public figures, they felt responsible for other women. To these women, we can only say: thank you for sharing and yes, you are worthy examples to follow. But let’s respect those who are in treatment...”

Explaining the Jolie Effect

Doctors’ stance is clear, and many hope to see a “Bianca Balti effect” in Italy, similar to the one inspired by Angelina Jolie in 2013. Remember? The actress announced to the world that she had undergone a double mastectomy to reduce her risk of developing breast cancer. Her decision was motivated by the loss of her mother, grandmother, and aunts to this disease and by her positive result for the BRCA1 gene, which increases breast cancer risk. Jolie’s statements created a public stir but also raised awareness. Many people, inspired by her, not only opted for preventive mastectomies but also underwent genetic tests to check for “high-risk” genes. Similarly, Bianca Balti in December 2022 opted for a preventive mastectomy, with the intention of eventually removing her ovaries as well.

Is There a Right Way to Respond to a Cancer Diagnosis?

It’s a delicate, even intensely sensitive, subject. Some view it as private and deeply personal; others make it a public story, finding strength within themselves and aiming to help others. Reactions are always strong, in one direction or another. When debates on handling cancer intersect with discussions on privilege and access to care and prevention, it becomes even more complex. What’s right, and what’s wrong? Nothing is, when dealing with a potentially fatal illness, and we all have the right to feel and express our emotions about something so profound. If it’s helpful, let’s remain silent and allow women undergoing treatment the freedom to manage their journey, including how they communicate it.