Zara McDermott, the former Love Islander and Strictly Come Dancing star, has provided a detailed health update to her fans, revealing she underwent a full MRI scan after discovering a small, unusual lump in her armpit. The 29-year-old celebrity documented the experience in a recent YouTube vlog, explaining her proactive approach to preventative healthcare.
Health Concerns and Scan Details
In the vlog, McDermott clarified that she does not consider herself overly health-anxious but rather health-conscious. She booked the MRI scan primarily for peace of mind, as part of a broader effort to prioritize her well-being in the new year. During the appointment, she planned to ask doctors to examine a tiny abnormality under her armpit, which she described as "not a lump" but possibly a gland.
"I also have had this tiny little, it's not a lump, under like my armpit. I don't know if it's like a gland or something," she shared while en route to the scan. McDermott added that she had slept poorly the night before, feeling tired on the day of the procedure.
Preventative Health Initiative
The decision to undergo the scan was influenced by discussions with a friend, likely Daisy Tomlinson, sister of her boyfriend Louis Tomlinson, over the Christmas period. They talked about preventative health and getting into top shape for the year, which led them to book the scans together after seeing advertisements on Instagram. It took approximately one month to secure the appointment, but McDermott expressed anticipation for the results.
Dressed in scrubs for the scan, she described the experience as "nice, clean, and simple." This proactive step aligns with her ongoing health journey, which began in 2023 when she was diagnosed with early signs of osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis Diagnosis and Recovery
Osteoporosis is a medical condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more susceptible to fractures. It typically develops gradually over years and is often identified after a fall or injury. For McDermott, this diagnosis required significant lifestyle adjustments.
In December 2023, she was hospitalized for treatment of a fracture in her tibia, sharing updates on her recovery. "The good news is that there is some small evidence of healing! Yay!" she announced at the time. However, she noted that the bone around the fracture was under tension, and while surgery remained an option, she opted for a natural healing process.
Patients with osteoporosis may require surgical interventions, such as metal screws and plates, to stabilize bones. McDermott used crutches during her recovery, hoping it marked "the beginning of the end" of her health struggles.
Personal Life Updates
By December of the following year, McDermott's life had taken a positive turn. She celebrated her birthday with a low-key holiday, accompanied by her new boyfriend, Louis Tomlinson, whom she has been dating since March 2025 after her split from podcaster Sam Thompson. She shared a selfie from their trip, captioning it, "The best birthday ever with you & the final year of my 20's!!"
Additionally, McDermott publicly praised Tomlinson's new album, which achieved a number-one chart position, stating, "Proud is an understatement." This period contrasts sharply with her earlier health challenges, highlighting her resilience and ongoing commitment to wellness.
