Days could make the difference, warns Sarah Ferguson as she urges Brits not to skip check-ups after cancer diagnosis
CANCER-hit Fergie has urged people not to skip health check-ups, and warned: “Days could make the difference between life and death.”
Sarah, Duchess of York, 64, was diagnosed with an aggressive skin cancer in January — less than a year after a mastectomy for a breast tumour.
She almost cancelled the routine mammogram which picked it up as she was busy, but her sister urged her to attend.
Mum-of-two Fergie said: “After undergoing a mastectomy and reconstruction, I could only hope that I was in the clear, which is why a new diagnosis of skin cancer came as a shock.
“I’m in the best hands and feeling positive.”
She spoke out to mark Cancer Prevention Action Week this week, saying: “I would urge anyone who is able to be diligent with their health check-ups.
“I’m determined to do whatever I can to help raise awareness by sharing my experience.”
Rachael Gormley, chief executive of World Cancer Research Fund, said: “We want to thank the Duchess of York for sharing her own experience.”
She added: “It is such an important message to get across.”
Signs of skin cancer to look out for
MEDICAL expert Dr Philippa Kaye has revealed what to look out for following Fergie’s shock skin cancer diagnosis.
The TV doctor added that it is common to have moles and it is important to check your skin for any changes.
And she urged Brits to avoid the sun in the middle of the day, sunbeds and tanning booths, warning: “There is no such thing as a safe sun tan.
“Whatever your skin colour, protect yourself from the sun. Use a high factor SPF, broad spectrum sun cream.”
Dr Kaye added: “Malignant melanoma is a type of skin cancer which can spread to other parts of the body.
“Although it is more common in older adults, it can occur at a younger age. The majority of cases are due to sun damage from sun exposure or sun beds. Other risk factors include having a family history of melanoma, having pale skin and getting older.”
She encouraged people to use an ABCE checklist to identify any changes. This includes Asymmetry of a mole, the Border of the mole becoming irregular, having two or more Colours, a Diameter of over 6mm or a mole that is constantly Evolving.
She urged anyone noticing these changes to see a specialist, adding: “A dermatologist is likely to examine the lesion and may take an excision biopsy where the mole, or part of the mole and surrounding tissue, is removed and examined.”
If the melanoma has not spread, surgically removing the mole generally is curative. If it has spread, then treatment can include radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Almost all patients diagnosed with stage one malignant melanoma survive at least five years after diagnosis, she said.
Patients may alternatively be diagnosed with a non melanoma skin cancer, which are often related to sun damage and are more likely for older people and those with pale skin.