Angelina Jolie and Maddox Jolie-Pitt speak to guests during the State Dinner for President Yoon Suk-yeol. TNS

Angelina Jolie has urged women with a history of cancer in their family to “look after” themselves and “take mamograms, blood tests and ultrasounds”.

The actor posted a touching tribute to her late mum on Instagram for what would have been her 73rd birthday.

Marcia Lynne ‘Marcheline’ Bertrand – also an actor – died of ovarian cancer in 2007, after also being diagnosed with breast cancer.

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Jolie underwent a prophylactic double mastectomy in 2013, because she carries a gene called BRCA1 that significantly increases the odds of developing breast or ovarian cancer.

The 47-year-old posted: “[My mother] passed away 15 years ago after a long struggle with breast and ovarian cancer”.

“In June, I will be a month away from the age when she was diagnosed. I have had preventive surgeries to try to lessen the chances but I continue to have check ups.

“My mom loved Hendrix. And would always sign her letters Kiss the Sky. It took on new meaning after she passed.

“Sending my love to those who have also lost loved ones and strength to those who are fighting at this very moment for their lives and the lives of those they love.

“And to other women, please take the time to look after yourself and go for your mammograms and blood tests or ultrasounds, particularly if you have a family history of cancer.”

The Independent