Sarah Ferguson: Duchess of York diagnosed with skin cancer

The Duchess of York has been diagnosed with malignant melanoma after having a cancerous mole removed during breast cancer treatment.

Several moles were analysed during reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy, according to her spokesman.

Despite the news, Sarah Ferguson is in good spirits.

She is the third royal to reveal a medical procedure this week.

Her spokesperson said: “Her dermatologist asked that several moles were removed and analysed at the same time as the duchess was undergoing reconstructive surgery following her mastectomy, and one of these has been identified as cancerous.

“She is undergoing further investigations to ensure that this has been caught in the early stages.

“The duchess wants to thank the entire medical team which has supported her, particularly her dermatologist whose vigilance ensured the illness was detected when it was.

What is melanoma skin cancer?

• Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other areas of the body.
• The main cause of melanoma is ultraviolet light, which comes from the sun and is used in sunbeds.
• Things that increase your chances of getting melanoma include your age and having pale skin, a large number of moles and a family history of skin cancer