Introduction to Gordon Ramsay’s Health Update
Gordon Ramsay has a message for you this holiday weekend: wear sunscreen. The Michelin-starred celebrity chef posted Saturday on Instagram that he was diagnosed with skin cancer and had the basal cell carcinoma removed from the side of his face.
Details of the Diagnosis and Surgery
Ramsay shared two photos, one of a bandage stretching from his cheek to his neck. Another, a close-up, showed stitch marks directly below his earlobe. “Grateful and so appreciative for the incredible team at The Skin Associates and their fast reactive work on removing this Basal Cell Carcinoma thank you! Please don’t forget your sunscreen this weekend,” Ramsay wrote in the caption. His post was not without humor: “I promise you it’s not a face lift! I’d need a refund …” he said.
Previous Health Issues and Public Awareness
Ramsay — the host, most recently, of the reality TV show “Hell’s Kitchen” — has not been shy about sharing his health issues on social media, as well as offering cautionary advice to his followers. Last year he posted a video on Instagram after he was in a bicycle accident in Connecticut. In the video, the Scottish-born restaurateur lifted his white chef coat and pointed to expansive bruising on his torso. He urged his followers to “WEAR A HELMET.”
Understanding Skin Cancer and Basal Cell Carcinoma
Skin cancers are among the most common cancers diagnosed worldwide, according to the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer. More than 1.5 million new cases were estimated in 2022. Basal cell carcinoma in particular, which Ramsay was diagnosed with, is a type of non-melanoma skin cancer and the most common overall, says Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand, a double board certified dermatologist based in Dallas. “But the good news,” Houshmand says, “is there’s a less than 1% chance of metastasis, meaning it would spread to other organs, regions. But it is a skin cancer and needs to be addressed promptly. Usually the treatment is surgical excision and that’s what Gordon Ramsay had done.”
Importance of Early Detection and Prevention
Early detection of basal cell carcinoma, Houshmand says, is key. As are preventative measures, such as wearing sunscreen and SPF clothing. “It’s generally slow-growing and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, and with early detection and treatment the cure rate is very high,” she says. “Always see your dermatologist if you see an irregularity that’s not going away. Don’t wait. And protect yourself — I like an SPF of 50 or greater and apply it 15 minutes before going outside.”
Conclusion
Gordon Ramsay’s public announcement about his skin cancer diagnosis and surgery serves as a reminder of the importance of sun protection and regular health check-ups. By sharing his experience, Ramsay encourages his followers to be more mindful of their skin health and to take preventive measures against skin cancer. As people enjoy the outdoors, especially during holiday weekends, remembering to apply sunscreen can make a significant difference in reducing the risk of skin cancer.
FAQs
- Q: What type of skin cancer did Gordon Ramsay have?
A: Gordon Ramsay was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, a type of non-melanoma skin cancer. - Q: How is basal cell carcinoma typically treated?
A: The usual treatment for basal cell carcinoma is surgical excision, which is what Gordon Ramsay underwent. - Q: What is the importance of early detection in basal cell carcinoma?
A: Early detection is crucial because it allows for prompt treatment, which significantly increases the cure rate. Basal cell carcinoma is slow-growing and rarely spreads, but it needs to be addressed early. - Q: What preventive measures can be taken against skin cancer?
A: Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or greater, applying it 15 minutes before going outside, and wearing SPF clothing are recommended preventive measures. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist are also advised if any skin irregularities are noticed.
