Countryfile presenter Julia Bradbury has delivered a startling new health update, revealing that doctors discovered “a cyst in her brain” during recent medical tests. The revelation came as the 55-year-old star appeared on Wednesday’s episode of The One Show, where she opened up about her ongoing journey following her 2021 breast cancer diagnosis.

Julia Bradbury has revealed that doctors found ‘a cyst in her brain’ as she gave a health update during Wednesday’s episode of The One Show

Julia, who underwent a mastectomy to remove a 6cm tumour, explained that her battle with cancer had been the turning point that pushed her to take control of her overall health.

“My cancer diagnosis was the moment when I really started to look at my health differently,” she told viewers. “I wanted to learn how to get through the diagnosis, the treatment, and then figure out what I could do to help myself recover and live a long, happy life afterwards.”

“You’re never the same after hearing those words”

The Countryfile host, 55, was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2021 and underwent a mastectomy to have her 6 cm tumour removed

Reflecting on her experience, Julia admitted that nothing can prepare a person for the shock of being told they have cancer:
“When you hear the words ‘you’ve got cancer,’ I don’t think you’ll ever be the same again.”

But instead of retreating into fear, Julia said her diagnosis sparked a fascination with health and wellness: “There are so many amazing experts — on sleep, nutrition, the benefits of nature — and I wanted to explore all of that. Even things like sugar, alcohol, and poor sleep habits… I wanted to understand what impact they’d had on my body.”

Full body scan reveals hidden surprises

She has since explained how the diagnosis forced her to take control of her health and how she now ‘feels empowered’ after having a full check

Julia explained that she gave blood and stool samples and underwent a full body MRI scan.
“They discovered a cyst in my brain — nothing to worry about, but it’s there,” she revealed.  Doctors also spotted something on her ovary, but further checks confirmed it was harmless.

“I know some people don’t want to know about these things, but for me, I find it empowering. I’m just naturally curious,” she added.

From heartbreak to advocacy

The update follows Julia’s recent candid video about life after her mastectomy. She admitted the procedure was devastating at the time but knew it was the best option to save her life. In the Instagram clip, she urged women to prioritise preventive care and early screenings, calling them vital in saving lives.

Julia went on to reveal she gave blood and stool samples as well as undergoing a full body MRI. She added: ‘They discovered a cyst in my brain, which is nothing to worry about but it is there’

Since her diagnosis, Julia has become a leading voice in raising awareness about PRS (polygenic risk score) and SNP testing on the NHS. She explained how she underwent a PRS test, which looks at DNA variations to assess personal cancer risk.

“My PRS results showed a slightly higher genetic risk for recurrence,” she shared. “That knowledge helped me and my medical team make more informed decisions about treatment, monitoring, and lifestyle changes. It’s given me peace of mind — and a plan.”

“We need preventive care, not just reactive care”

Julia is now calling for wider access to PRS and SNP testing, believing it could save countless lives.

“If I had known I was at higher risk, I might have approached my lump differently when I first found it in my 50s,” she said. “We need to move towards prevention, not just reaction. The earlier we understand our risks, the earlier we can act.”

She ended with a heartfelt message: “Let’s give people the tools to make informed decisions about their health.”