Giuliana Rancic to have double mastectomy

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NEW YORK, Dec. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. reality TV personality Giuliana Rancic says she is planning to undergo a double mastectomy next week, followed by immediate breast reconstruction.

The "Fashion Police" co-host announced in October she is being treated for breast cancer.

In an exclusive statement made to E! News, Rancic explained why she is talking about her health issues in public.

"First, I would like to take the stigma away," she said.

"'Mastectomy' the word seemed so scary to me at first. After doing research and seeing the advancements, the surgery has come a long way from 20 years ago," she explained. "The results can be incredible. Not only can it save your life, but you can come out feeling healthier and with a positive self-image. Second, I want to encourage everyone to be proactive with their health and get checked out. When I went public with my breast cancer diagnosis six weeks ago, the overwhelming outpouring of love, prayers and support really helped me heal faster. I want to make sure to thank everyone and give them an update for being so kind and loving and supportive."

Rancic and her husband Bill star in Style Network's "Giuliana and Bill" show. He is a real-estate developer and the first winner of the business-themed competition series "The Apprentice."