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Known for his various roles, notably in Wolverine, the Australian actor Hugh Jackman was very exposed to the sun without protection during his youth. Aged 54, he was affected by several small basal cell carcinomas and has just undergone a biopsy for other lesions. He wants to share his story to do prevention.
Originally from Australia, Hugh Jackman grew up under the sun, without any real sun protection. In 2017, he had already had several skin cancers removed, basal cell carcinomas induced by this excessive sun exposure without protection.
Hugh Jackman just had two biopsies
Wearing a bandage on her nose, the 54-year-old star made an appearance on her social networks in order to do prevention. Via his Instagram account, he explains that his doctor had detected “little things that may or may not be basal cell cancer“.
“I had two biopsies. I just went to see my doctor, Dr. Iron, who is awesome. I will know the results in two or three days and as soon as I know I will let you know“. A sincere speech during which the Australian actor encouraged everyone to protect themselves from the sun by putting on sunscreen. He thus recalled that the damage does not necessarily appear immediately but sometimes much later , “25 years later” in his case.
What is the skin cancer suffered by the actor?
There are different types of skin cancer. Melanoma, which is very aggressive, is the best known. The skin cancer Hugh Jackman suffered from is basal cell carcinoma. The appearance of these cancers is generally in areas exposed to the sun.
It is therefore necessary to be attentive as soon as the skin shows signs of photo-induced aging, in particular that of the face, the neckline, the back of the hands and the forearms. The skin becomes thin, irregularly pigmented, wrinkled, dry, covered with telangiectasias and sometimes papules or yellowish plaques corresponding to areas of elastosis. The patient or physician should be concerned if there is any persistent papular, erythematous (red) lesion or normal skin color, crusting or ulceration. A skin biopsy makes the diagnosis.
What are the evolutions and treatments of this cancer?
Unlike melanoma, the evolution of this type of cancer is slow. Basal cell carcinoma remains on the surface without invading surrounding tissues or causing metastasis. Early treatment is based on complete surgical excision of the lesion or, for small tumours, destruction by liquid nitrogen or laser.
Under treatment, the evolution is favorable. Local recurrences may occur if the treatment is poorly conducted. Regular monitoring is then necessary (every 6 months or every year) because of the risk of seeing other skin carcinomas develop. So it is for Hugh Jackman.