Governor Takes Action on Skin Cancer Prevention After Personal Revelation

New York Governor Kathy Hochul reveals skin cancer diagnosis, urges public to prioritize prevention.

At a Glance

Governor Hochul diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma on her nose.
She will undergo a minor removal procedure with local anesthesia.
Hochul emphasizes importance of regular check-ups and sun protection.
Basal cell carcinoma is common, highly curable if caught early.

Governor’s Diagnosis and Upcoming Procedure

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced her recent diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma, a common form of skin cancer. The condition was discovered during a routine checkup a few weeks ago. Hochul, 66, is scheduled to undergo a minor removal procedure on Friday morning to address the cancer, which she described as a “tiny, tiny speck” on her nose.

The procedure will involve local anesthesia, allowing the governor to return to work shortly after. Hochul reassured the public about the nature of the procedure, stating, “I’m going to have a small removal procedure. I’m not going under. It’s local anesthesia. It will be occurring Friday morning. I’ll be back to work an hour later, but there will be a bandage on my nose.”

Understanding Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is a slow-growing skin cancer often linked to sun exposure. It is highly curable if caught early and is typically removed with a shallow incision. This type of skin cancer rarely metastasizes to other parts of the body, making it less dangerous than other forms of cancer when detected and treated promptly.

Governor Hochul mentioned that basal cell carcinoma is common in her family, highlighting the role of genetic factors in skin cancer risk. “For the Irish it’s very common, just about everybody in my family (has had it),” she added, emphasizing the importance of being aware of one’s family history when it comes to health.

Advocating for Skin Cancer Prevention

In light of her diagnosis, Governor Hochul has taken the opportunity to advocate for skin cancer prevention and early detection. She strongly encourages regular check-ups and skin protection measures, particularly for those with a family history of skin conditions. The governor stressed the importance of using sunscreen and protecting children from excessive sun exposure.

“There’s about 6 million diagnoses a day from the CDC and I want to make sure everybody’s smart about this. Use your suntan lotion,” Hochul said.

The American Cancer Society recommends several measures to lower skin cancer risk, including limiting sun exposure, using sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing. Additionally, avoiding tanning beds, sun lamps, smoking, and harmful chemicals can further reduce the risk of skin cancer. Regular skin checks for new growths or abnormal spots are also crucial for early detection and treatment.

Public Health Implications

Governor Hochul’s openness about her diagnosis serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of skin cancer awareness and prevention. By sharing her experience, she hopes to encourage New Yorkers and others to take proactive steps to protect their skin health. This includes not only sun protection measures but also regular medical check-ups to catch any potential issues early.

While some risk factors for skin cancer, such as age, sex, race, and family history, cannot be controlled, many preventive measures are within reach for most individuals. As we approach warmer months, Governor Hochul’s message serves as a timely reminder of the need for vigilance in skin care and cancer prevention.

For those seeking more information on skin cancer prevention and detection, the American Cancer Society’s website offers comprehensive resources and guidelines. Governor Hochul’s experience underscores the fact that skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of their position or status, and that early detection and prevention are key to maintaining good health.