Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, is an outspoken advocate for cancer survivors.
She suffered from two different cancers in a short period of time: breast cancer and later malignant melanoma, highlighting the importance of routine screening and early detection.
Timeline of diagnosis and treatment
June 2023 – Breast cancer diagnosis
In June 2023, Sarah Ferguson was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine mammogram. The cancer was detected early, underscoring the importance of routine checkups.
She underwent a single mastectomy, a surgical procedure to remove one breast, as part of her treatment plan.
Reports indicated that the operation was successful and no chemotherapy or radiotherapy was required at that stage.
Ferguson later emphasized the importance of screening, stating that she was only diagnosed because she attended a scheduled check-up, encouraging others not to delay routine testing.
January 2024 – Diagnosis of malignant melanoma
In early 2024, while recovering from breast cancer surgery, Ferguson was diagnosed with malignant melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer.
The melanoma was discovered after dermatologists examined several moles removed during reconstructive surgery after her mastectomy. One of these moles turned out to be cancer.
She underwent a wide local excision, a surgical procedure to remove the melanoma along with a margin of healthy tissue, to ensure complete removal of cancer cells.
Sarah Ferguson has spoken openly about the emotional toll of facing two cancer diagnoses in quick succession. She has described the experience as “a shock” and urged the public to remain vigilant about their health.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably.
Symptoms
- A lump or thickening in the breast
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Dimples in the skin or redness
- Nipple discharge or inversion
What is malignant melanoma?
Malignant melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and arises from melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment.
Warning signs (ABCDE rule)
When you notice a new mole or a stained patch of skin, follow the ABCDE rule:
- Asymmetry
- Border irregularity
- Color variation
- Diameter greater than 6 mm
- Evolving shape or size
Symptoms
- A new or changing birthmark
- Itching, bleeding, or crusting of a skin lesion
Sarah Ferguson’s dual cancer journey, first breast cancer and then malignant melanoma, demonstrates both the unpredictability of cancer and the lifesaving value of vigilance.
Through timely diagnosis and appropriate surgical treatment, she has been able to overcome two serious conditions, using her platform to advocate for awareness and preventive care.
