Kevin Jonas diagnosed with skin cancer, urges people to get moles checked

American musician and actor Kevin Jonas, one third of the popular band Jonas Brothers, has revealed he had an early diagnosis of skin cancer. Kevin Jonas took to his Instagram page to share the news of his surgery, and urged his 4.9 million followers and global fans to get any moles checked in time.

In an Instagram video titled ‘Friendly reminder to get your moles checked’, Kevin says: “So, today I am getting a basal cell carcinoma removed from my head,” Jonas said as he pointed to an area on his forehead. “Yes, that is a actual little skin cancer guy that started to grow and now I have to get surgery to remove it. So here we go…”

He shared a post-surgery glimpse, adding, “Alright I’m all done. Now it’s time to heal. I am heading home. Make sure to get those moles checked, people.”

Check out Kevin Jonas’ Instagram post on his cancer diagnosis here!

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The American Cancer Society thanked Kevin for sharing his story. “Glad you got it checked in time, that’s why it’s very important to #getscreened early,” the Society commented on his post.

Cancer survivors have also hailed the impact that celebrities like Kevin Jonas can bring towards skin cancer awareness. Digital creator and metastatic cancer survivor Katie Ostrovsky wrote, “Skin cancer is always looked at from a ‘cut it off and done’ kinda cancer. You sharing opens doors for others to realize how important it is to check your skin! Hope surgery went well. Keep sharing your experiences, it truly matters.”

What is Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal Cell Carcinoma or BCC is one of the most common forms of cancer found in humans. It is caused by the overproduction of basal cells in the top layer of your skin, also known as epidermis. Sun-damaged skin is more susceptible to this cancer type, which involves a slow-growing tumour. BCC is rarely fatal, but if treatment is incorrect, inadequate or delayed, it may destruct and disfigure local tissues, notes the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI).

BCC mostly appears as flesh- or pink-colored, pearly papules with overlying ulceration. It usually occurs on the head or neck in the majority of cases. According to statistical estimates, around one in five Americans may suffer this form of cancer.

What are the risk factors of Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Some of the key risk factors that contribute towards the development of this skin cancer are as follows:

1. UV light exposure

Unprotected exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays is one of the primary risk factors, as per NCBI. This may be particularly true for the UVB wavelengths. However, UVA wavelengths can also be harmful for skin. The duration and intensity of UV exposure of skin, especially during childhood and adolescence, also play key roles in the development of BCC.

2. Recreational sunlight exposure

Use of indoor tanning salons or undergoing UV light therapy could be risk factors for BCC occurrence.

3. Family history

A positive family history of skin cancer may cause basal cell carcinoma in a person. A previous skin cancer episode may also lead to recurrence.

4. Fair complexion

A person with fair complexion may be more likely to develop BCC. The American Cancer Society explains that it happens because the skin pigment melanin offers a protective layer in people with darker skin. Anyone with light-coloured skin that is susceptible to freckles or burns easily, blue or green eyes, and naturally red or blonde hair, are at a higher risk of BCC.

5. Age and sex

Men and older age people are considered more likely to get this skin cancer due to more sun exposure.

6. Weak immune system

A healthy immune system supports the body in fighting cancer. Whereas a weak immune system, compromised by an existing disease or medical treatment, may expose a human to skin cancer.