Oscar-nominated actor Hugh Jackman announced Tuesday that he recently underwent surgery for basal cell carcinoma – his third recurrence in 12 months.
Jackman's representative said that the actor is "all good" now, although Jackman expects the cancer to recur.
Basal cell carcinoma – a type of skin cancer – is thought to be caused by prolonged exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays. The carcinoma most often occurs on the face or neck – areas that receive the most sun exposure.
Jackman went public with his cancer battle in November 2013, sharing photos of a bandaged nose where the tumor was removed, and a message to his fans to use sunscreen. The cancer returned in May 2014, and he completed "X-Men: Days of Future Past" promotional interviews with a bandage on his nose.
"I'm realistic about the future and it's more than likely that I'll have at least one more [basal cell carcinoma] but probably many more, which is not uncommon for an Aussie, particularly from English stock growing up in Australia where I don't remember ever being told to put sunscreen on," he told the Associated Press.
"But the beauty of this is it's all preventable, it's just about getting proper checkups," the 46-year-old continued. "I can be typical man, a little lazy, I couldn't be bothered, and now I'm not lazy at all."
The actor was spotted walking his dog in New York on Sunday with a bandage on his nose where the growth was removed.
Basal cell carcinoma commonly reoccurs in the same area of the face or body, and may also increase the risk of developing other types of skin cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. Treatments can include topical medication and surgery, and depend on the size, location, and type of cancer.
Wearing sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds, and wearing protective clothing are just some of the ways to prevent basal cell carcinoma. You can also speak to a dermatologist about skin cancer screening.
