Former President Joe Biden recently underwent a surgical procedure for skin cancer, as confirmed by a spokeswoman to CBS News. The surgery, known as Mohs surgery, was performed to remove cancerous tissue from his skin. While specific details regarding the surgery were not immediately disclosed, the procedure is recognized for its effectiveness in treating certain forms of skin cancer.
Mohs surgery is a highly precise technique utilized by dermatologists to treat skin cancer. During this procedure, a doctor removes thin layers of skin and examines each layer microscopically for the presence of cancer cells. This meticulous process continues until only cancer-free tissue remains. The primary goal of Mohs surgery is to eliminate all cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible, making it particularly valuable for skin cancers that may have a high risk of recurrence or those that are challenging to define surgically.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Mohs surgery is especially effective for treating basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which are the two most common types of skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation also endorses this technique as the most successful method for these specific cancers.
In recent days, President Biden was seen with a visible wound on the right side of his head, as reported by Inside Edition and the New York Post. This visible mark comes in the wake of his previous health issues, including the removal of a small skin lesion containing cancerous tissue from his chest earlier in 2023. Medical testing confirmed that this lesion was indeed basal cell carcinoma, but the White House physician stated at the time that all cancerous tissue had been successfully excised.
Furthermore, this year, Biden's office disclosed that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that had metastasized to his bones. This diagnosis adds to the growing health concerns surrounding the former president, as he continues to navigate the challenges associated with these serious medical conditions.
As President Biden recovers from his recent Mohs surgery, the importance of early detection and treatment of skin cancer cannot be overstated. Through procedures like Mohs surgery, patients can effectively manage their health and combat the effects of skin cancer. This case highlights the ongoing need for awareness and education regarding skin cancer prevention and treatment options.
