US President Joe Biden has successfully undergone a procedure to remove a small lesion of skin cancer, it was revealed today. The lesion, identified as a basal cell carcinoma, was discovered during the President's routine physical examination in February.
The outpatient procedure, known as Mohs surgery, was performed at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. White House physician, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, confirmed that the surgery was “successful” and that all cancerous tissue was “effectively removed.”
No further treatment is required at this time, a positive sign that the procedure caught the cancer early. The area on President Biden's chest has been treated and is healing well.
What is Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common and most treatable form of skin cancer. It typically appears on areas of the skin frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and hands. Unlike more aggressive cancers, it rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
A Common Procedure for a Common Condition
Mohs surgery is a precise technique where surgeons remove thin layers of skin one at a time, examining each under a microscope during the procedure. This allows them to pinpoint and remove all cancerous cells while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. It is a standard and highly effective treatment for this type of cancer.
Dr. O'Connor's report emphasised that the discovery is “not a new diagnosis” but a common consequence of a lifetime of sun exposure. The President will continue to be monitored by his medical team through regular dermatological screenings.
The White House has been praised for its transparency regarding the President's health, releasing detailed reports on his medical condition. This incident serves as a public health reminder of the importance of regular skin checks and sun protection.
