Jessie J reveals early-stage breast cancer diagnosis and advocates for awareness

When a celebrity raises their voice about health, the world listens. And sometimes, that voice cuts right to the heart, reminding us all how fragile and connected we are.

British singer and songwriter Jessie J (real name Jessica Cornish) has always worn her heart on her sleeve, from heartbreaks and health struggles to her journey into motherhood.

But in her latest reveal, the 36-year-old pop star has opened up about a new, deeply personal battle that she’s only just started facing.

On 3 June, Jessie J took to Instagram to share something deeply personal: she’s been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer.

Her confession, raw and honest, has already sent shockwaves of empathy and awareness through her global fanbase, including right here in South Africa, where breast cancer remains a pressing health issue for many women.

Jessie J’s declaration, “I’m a sharer,” came across as unfiltered and genuine, deviating from typical polished announcements.

In a candid Instagram video, she revealed she has been in and out of tests for weeks before deciding to speak out about something she’d gone “back and forth” on.

“I want to share it with my fans and the people that care about me,” she says in the video.

“And also, I’m a sharer. I’ve always shared everything that I go through in my life.

Jessie J’s emotional post included a powerful “Cancer sucks in any form” caption.

“Before 'No Secrets' came out, I was diagnosed with early breast cancer. I’m highlighting the word early. Cancer sucks in any form, but I’m holding on to the word early, ”she wrote. 

Those words ring especially true in South Africa, where early detection of breast cancer can mean the difference between life and loss.

According to CANSA (the Cancer Association of South Africa), breast cancer is the most common cancer among South African women, and early diagnosis is crucial for survival. And that’s exactly why she chose to speak up.

Jessie J admitted that keeping it to herself was starting to feel emotionally unsustainable.

“I do not talk about it enough. I’m not processing it because I’m working so hard,” she shared.

“I also know how much sharing in the past has helped me with other people giving me their love and support, and also their own stories.”

It’s not the first time the pop star has used her platform to speak about her health.

According to "The Independent" in 2023, the "Bang Bang" hitmaker opened up about her ADHD and OCD diagnoses.

Conditions, she said, became more visible after the birth of her son, whom she shares with her partner, professional basketball player Chanan Safir Colman.

“Motherhood exposed it all,” she wrote at the time, adding that the diagnoses made her appreciate herself even more.

“I felt like hugging my 11-year-old self, the girl who cleaned her trainers with a toothbrush and relied on making lists so life wouldn’t fall apart.”

This kind of vulnerability has become a hallmark of the singer's relationship with her fans. From publicly professing her miscarriage in 2021 to embracing the joys and challenges of being a new mom, she’s never shied away from the messy, complex, and beautiful parts of real life.

Jessie J hasn’t lost her spark. She joked about her upcoming surgery, scheduled after her Summertime Ball performance in London on 15 June: “It’s a very dramatic way to get a boob job. I am going to disappear for a bit after Summertime Ball to have my surgery and I will come back with massive tits and more music.”

Breast cancer awareness

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, according to CANSA.

Catching it early significantly improves treatment outcomes, which is why routine breast checks and screening are vital. In her heartfelt post, she also reached out to others who might be dealing with something similar.

“I know there are so many people that are going through this same thing, and I’m honestly just reaching out to hold your hand because I need mine held too.”It’s a gentle call for the community. A moment of connection in a world that often pushes people to smile through the pain.

• Check yourself regularly: Look for changes in size, shape, or texture in your breasts.
• Schedule routine screenings: If you're over 40 or have a family history of breast cancer, ask your doctor about mammograms.
• Listen to your body: Fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or persistent pain? Don’t ignore it.
• Talk about it: Sharing saves lives.