Nicole Polizzi, known to fans as "Snooki" from the reality show Jersey Shore, has shared publicly that she was diagnosed with stage one cervical cancer. The news was revealed through social media posts, where Polizzi detailed her experience and encouraged others to prioritize their health. The diagnosis comes after she received abnormal pap smear results and previously had precancerous cells identified.
Polizzi, 38, disclosed that doctors found cancerous cells on the top of her cervix. Following the initial diagnosis, she underwent a cone biopsy, a procedure to remove a piece of the cervix containing the tumor. Reports indicate that the area around the tumor was found to be free of cancer cells after this procedure.
She has expressed her intention to undergo further medical evaluations, including a PET scan, to determine if the cancer has spread. Polizzi has also stated that she will likely have a hysterectomy as part of her treatment, rather than chemotherapy. This news has prompted Polizzi to urge her followers to schedule and attend their regular medical appointments, particularly pap smears, emphasizing the importance of early detection.
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Background of the Diagnosis and Procedure
The timeline of Polizzi's health disclosure began with her sharing a diagnosis of stage one cervical cancer. This was preceded by abnormal pap smear results and a prior identification of precancerous cells about four years ago. These earlier findings led her to undergo an "uncomfortable" colposcopy and biopsy.
On February 20, 2026, Polizzi took to platforms like TikTok to update her fans. She explained she was attending a post-operative appointment following a cone biopsy. This procedure was performed to remove the tumor from her cervix.

"Doctor calls me and he’s like, ‘Not looking great.’ He found cancerous cells on the top of my cervix." - Nicole Polizzi
Polizzi mentioned that she had previously delayed medical appointments due to discomfort and the stress associated with potential health issues. However, the recent diagnosis has led her to emphasize the necessity of these screenings.
Medical Procedures and Next Steps
Following the detection of cancerous cells, Polizzi underwent a cone biopsy. This surgical procedure involves removing a cone-shaped section of the cervix that contains the cancerous or precancerous tissue. According to her statements, after this procedure, the margins of the removed tissue were clear, meaning no cancer cells were found at the edges of the removed section.
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"I gotta keep attacking this & everything’s gonna be great." - Nicole Polizzi
Polizzi plans to proceed with a PET scan. This diagnostic imaging technique helps doctors assess if cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body.
She has indicated that a hysterectomy is likely to be her next significant medical step. This surgical procedure involves the removal of the uterus. It is a common treatment for cervical cancer, especially when the cancer is localized.
Public Engagement and Health Advocacy
Nicole Polizzi has used her public platform to share her personal health journey. Her disclosures have been made via social media, primarily TikTok. Through these updates, she has directly addressed her fans and followers.

A significant aspect of her communication has been advocating for regular health screenings.
"So get your appointments done." - Nicole Polizzi
She has specifically highlighted the importance of pap smears, a routine test used to detect cervical cancer and precancerous changes. Her message is a plea to women to not postpone or neglect these vital medical check-ups, even if they are uncomfortable or perceived as stressful.
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Polizzi has also expressed an openness to connecting with others who may be facing similar health challenges.
Evidence of Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis: Stage one cervical cancer. This was identified through pap smear tests and subsequent biopsies.
Initial Procedure: Cone biopsy performed to remove the tumor. Reports confirm the tumor was removed and surrounding areas were found to be cancer-free at the margins.
Future Procedures: A PET scan is scheduled to check for spread, and a hysterectomy is anticipated as a primary treatment.
Timing: The public disclosure occurred on February 20, 2026, with prior events involving abnormal pap smears and precancerous cell identification happening approximately four years before the current diagnosis.
Expert Commentary on Early Detection
Medical experts underscore the critical role of early detection in treating cervical cancer. Routine screenings like pap smears allow for the identification of precancerous changes or early-stage cancers, when treatment is most effective and less invasive.
"Early detection of cervical cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes. Regular screenings are the most powerful tool women have against this disease." - (Attributed general medical principle, specific expert not named in sources)
The success of procedures like the cone biopsy and the potential for less aggressive treatments when cancer is found at stage one are directly linked to timely screening and diagnosis.
Conclusion and Future Implications
Nicole Polizzi's public disclosure of her stage one cervical cancer diagnosis serves as a prominent reminder of the importance of routine health screenings. The early detection, followed by the planned surgical interventions, suggests a path towards recovery. Her active engagement in advocating for pap smears highlights the direct impact of public figures in raising awareness for critical public health issues. The ongoing medical evaluations, including the PET scan and planned hysterectomy, will define the full scope of her treatment. Her open sharing of this experience offers a relatable narrative for many, potentially encouraging increased adherence to medical advice and early detection practices among her audience and beyond.
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Sources
USA Today: Published: 55 minutes ago. Link: https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2026/02/20/snooki-from-jersey-shore-reveals-cervical-cancer-diagnosis/88786156007/
The Hollywood Reporter: Published: 1 day ago. Link: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lifestyle/lifestyle-news/nicole-snooki-polizzi-cervical-cancer-diagnosis-1236511090/
silive.com: Published: Jan 24, 2026. Link: https://www.silive.com/news/2026/01/famed-jersey-shore-reality-star-reveals-shocking-cancer-diagnosis.html
The Sun: Published: 1 day ago. Link: https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/15977821/jersey-shore-snooki-cervical-cancer-diagnosis/
People: Published: 3 hours ago. Link: https://people.com/nicole-snooki-polizzi-reveals-cervical-cancer-diagnosis-11911083
TMZ: Published: 3 hours ago. Link: https://www.tmz.com/2026/02/20/snooki-clarifies-cancer-diagnosis/