Sarah Ferguson Has Skin Cancer Just Months After Mastectomy To Beat Breast Cancer
Sarah Ferguson is confronting a fresh health battle as she reveals she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of skin cancer.
The Duchess of York's malignant melanoma diagnosis comes only months after she underwent a successful mastectomy in June 2023 to treat her breast cancer.
A spokesperson for Ferguson shared the news, saying in a statement obtained by People, "Following her diagnosis with an early form of breast cancer this summer, Sarah, Duchess of York has now been diagnosed with malignant melanoma."
The discovery was made during Ferguson's reconstructive surgery following the mastectomy, where several moles were removed and analyzed by a dermatologist. One of these moles was identified as cancerous.
The spokesperson added that the duchess, who is the ex-wife of the disgraced Prince Andrew, is undergoing further investigations to ensure early detection and appropriate treatment.
Ferguson has been receiving treatment for skin cancer in London and recuperating at the MAYRLIFE clinic, a medical health resort in Altaussee, Austria.
Malignant melanoma is a highly aggressive form of skin cancer that develops in the melanin-producing cells of the skin, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation. Due to its potential to spread rapidly to other parts of the body, melanoma requires prompt detection and intervention.
Ferguson's representative expressed gratitude to the medical team supporting her, especially her dermatologist, and emphasized the importance of regular checks for changes in moles.
According to the spokesperson, the duchess hopes her experience underscores the significance of monitoring mole size, shape, color, and texture for potential indicators of melanoma.
Despite the "distressing" second cancer diagnosis, Ferguson "remains in good spirits," her rep told the outlet.
An unnamed close friend of Ferguson also highlighted her resilience, telling People, "[She] is very resilient and in good spirits. Her time in Austria helped her gather her strength, and her family is supporting her."
The Duchess of York initially disclosed her breast cancer diagnosis in June last year.
She underwent an hours-long mastectomy operation after a shadow was detected during a routine mammogram screening, the Daily Mail reported. This was followed by reconstructive surgery.
Ferguson told People in November 2023 that she had the support of her daughters, Princess Beatrice, 35, and Princess Eugenie, 33, throughout her breast cancer journey.
Months after her mastectomy, Fergie announced in an Instagram post on New Year's Eve that she "beat breast cancer."
Ferguson's second cancer diagnosis comes days after it was announced that Kate Middleton underwent a planned abdominal surgery and that King Charles would receive treatment to correct an enlarged prostate.
Kensington Palace confirmed Wednesday that the Princess of Wales' surgery was not cancer-related. Buckingham Palace said the monarch's condition is benign. No further detail was provided about their respective illness.
