(CNN) – Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, has been diagnosed with malignant melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer, the UK Press Association (PA) reported on Sunday, citing a spokesman for Ferguson.
The disease was discovered after she had several moles removed in June while she was being treated for breast cancer, PA said.
“After being diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer this summer, Sarah, Duchess of York, has been diagnosed with malignant melanoma,” a Ferguson spokesperson said.
“Her dermatologist requested the removal and analysis of several moles while the Duchess was undergoing reconstructive surgery following her mastectomy, and one of them was identified as cancerous.”
Ferguson was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023 after a routine mammogram and underwent surgery.
“Obviously, another diagnosis so soon after treatment for breast cancer was worrying for the Duchess,” the spokesperson added.
The 64-year-old is said to be recovering at home with her family and remains in “good spirits,” PA reported.
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that develops in the cells that give skin its color, melanin. It is considered the most serious form of skin cancer because it can quickly spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening.
Sometimes it starts as a new, small, mole-like growth or develops from an existing mole.
Sun exposure is the main risk factor for all types of skin cancer. However, it may only take intermittent sun exposure, such as weekend sunbathing, to increase the risk of developing melanoma.
The risk also increases in people with fair skin, freckles or burns. Additionally, people with many moles and/or irregularly shaped moles are at higher risk.
“The Duchess would like to thank the entire medical team who supported her, especially her dermatologist, whose vigilance ensured that the disease was detected in time,” her spokesman said.
“She believes her experience underscores the importance of checking the size, shape, color, texture and appearance of new moles that could be a sign of melanoma,” she added.