Yahoo News DJ Chris Evans announces skin cancer diagnosis live on air
Radio DJ and former Top Gear presenter Chris Evans has revealed that he has been diagnosed with skin cancer.
Speaking about the diagnosis on his Virgin Radio show today (August 21) the broadcaster explained that he had recently undergone a biopsy after a masseuse spotted an irregular mole on his shin, with the results revealing that he has a melanoma.
"We need to discuss what's going on with this issue. It is a melanoma," he said. "There's this phrase called a malignant melanoma - you know once you get something and you find out all about it - that is a redundant phrase because if it is a melanoma it is malignant."
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However, Chris revealed that the illness has thankfully been caught in the very early stages, though he will still need surgery to remove the mole and surrounding skin.
"But it's been caught so early, just so you know, that it should be completely treatable," he added, explaining that his treatment will begin on September 14. "It is as treatable as cancer can possibly be, to the extent that they call it stage zero."
According to the NHS, a melanoma is a type of skin cancer which is often caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light, which comes from the sun and sun-beds. Symptoms include new moles or changes to existing moles on the body.
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The presenter has also urged listeners to get checked if they notice any unusual symptoms, adding: "Get yourself checked, just check yourself for stuff... The biggest weapon in your arsenal, in our collective arsenal, against things that are out to get us, is early detection."
The broadcaster had previously had a cancer scare back in 2015, revealing at the time that he had undergone tests for prostate cancer after developing worrying symptoms.
If you would like more information or support about living with cancer or treatment, please click here for guidance from Macmillan Cancer Support, or click here to learn more from Stand Up to Cancer.
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