Well-known television presenter Adrian Chiles has publicly shared that he recently underwent a procedure to remove a cancerous patch of skin from his shoulder. The former host of The One Show and ITV Sport football coverage detailed his diagnosis and treatment in a candid column.
From Suspicion to Surgery: Chiles' Diagnosis Journey
The broadcaster first became concerned when he noticed a suspicious mark on his skin. He subsequently visited a dermatologist, who performed a biopsy. The results, which confirmed the presence of cancer, were delivered to him by post. Chiles described the patch as a squamous cell carcinoma, a common type of non-melanoma skin cancer caused by an overproduction of cells in the skin's top layer.
Reflecting on the communication from his medical team, Chiles expressed initial anxiety. "I suggested that, if cancer was a possibility, then a bit of hurry-up might be called for," he wrote, recounting a conversation with his dermatologist. The doctor's response, that a delay "won't make any difference now" and that only coming sooner would have helped, left him confused about the urgency of the situation.
Navigating the NHS System and a Positive Outcome
Frustrated by an app-based system he felt "masquerades as communication," Chiles proactively sought direct contact with a skin cancer nurse. He emphasised that for him, true communication must be a two-way process. Following the necessary steps, he had the cancerous cells surgically removed.
The outcome, fortunately, is positive. Chiles stated clearly that the carcinoma has been "all removed and won't spread." He summarised his condition by saying, "So not nothing, but not serious. Needs keeping an eye on." His experience highlights the importance of monitoring skin changes and seeking prompt medical advice.
Skin Cancer in the UK and Chiles' Health Advocacy
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United Kingdom. It is broadly categorised into two types: melanoma, the more serious form with around 13,000 new UK cases diagnosed annually, and non-melanoma, which sees over 100,000 new cases every year.
This is not the first time Adrian Chiles has spoken openly about his health. In 2018, he fronted a documentary titled Drinkers Like Me, where he revealed he was consuming up to 100 units of alcohol a week and was advised he had signs of liver damage. This led him to significantly moderate his drinking, a change he says has greatly improved his quality of life, especially during festive periods.
