U.S. Environmental Protection Agency administrator Lee Zeldin recently opened up about his personal battle with skin cancer, specifically basal cell carcinoma (BCC). In a candid announcement on social media platform X, he shared his experience and sought to raise awareness about the critical importance of sun protection and regular dermatological checks.
Zeldin revealed that he had the cancerous tissue fully removed from his face by a skilled medical team at Walter Reed Medical Center. “PSA: Wear sunscreen and get your skin checked,” he emphasized, urging the public to take preventive measures. His lesion, which began as a subtle, pearl-colored bump on his nose, turned out to be malignant after a biopsy. The method used to remove it was Mohs surgery, a technique celebrated for its precision in ensuring complete excision of cancerous cells. “I’m relieved to be cancer-free,” Zeldin added, highlighting the effectiveness of early detection and treatment.
The aftermath of his surgery included reconstructive work on his nose, where a plastic surgeon utilized cartilage taken from behind his ear and surrounding skin flaps. This detail underscores the complexity of his medical journey and illustrates the lengths that must sometimes be taken to restore health and appearance after a significant medical intervention.
Zeldin openly acknowledged a past mistake shared by many: spending time in the sun without adequate protection. “Like many people, there were plenty of moments in my life when I spent time in the sun without sunscreen. That was a mistake,” he admitted. This recognition serves as a cautionary tale, reinforcing the message that sun safety is essential for everyone. He advised using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher consistently and emphasized that regular skin checks can make a significant difference.
His call to action is straightforward yet powerful: “Please encourage your friends and family to wear sunscreen and see a dermatologist regularly. Early detection matters,” he said. This statement resonates deeply, encapsulating the prevention mindset that is crucial when it comes to combating skin cancer.
Zeldin’s experience not only sheds light on the personal aspects of coping with a medical condition but also serves to galvanize public awareness about cancer prevention. His determination to combat the disease and educate others stands as a reminder of the vital role individual choices play in health management. His story could motivate others to take their skin health seriously and reinforce that preventive care and awareness can lead to better outcomes in the long run.
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