Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York and ex-wife of Prince Andrew, has been diagnosed with malignant melanoma, an aggressive type of skin cancer, according to British media reported this Sunday.
The diagnosis comes after several moles were removed. And now they are subjecting him to new tests to "ensure that this has been detected in the early stages", as his spokeswoman explained to Sky News.
According to the American Cancer Society, melanoma is much less common than other types of skin cancers. However, this one is more dangerous, because it is much more likely to spread to other parts of the body if it is not discovered and treated in time.
According to these specialists, there are some signs that may indicate the development of this disease. For example, keep an eye out for any mole, sore, bump, blemish, mark, or unusual change in the look or feel of an area of skin, as has been the case with Ferguson.
There is no foolproof way to prevent malignant melanoma, this organization reminds us. Some risk factors influence its appearance, such as age, race and family history, although continued exposure to UV rays increases the chances of its appearance.
It is the second setback that Ferguson has received in a short time, because the Duchess of York was treated for breast cancer last year.
It is not the only health problem for a member of the British royal family. Buckingham announced last Wednesday that Prince William's wife Kate had successfully undergone planned abdominal surgery. Additionally, King Charles, 75, is preparing for a "corrective procedure" for an enlarged prostate.
