Kevin Jonas on Skin Cancer Removal & How to Check Your Skin

Kevin Jonas is bringing attention to skin cancer awareness by sharing his personal experience.

The eldest member of the Jonas Brothers took to Instagram this week to discuss his skin cancer removal.

“Yes, that little skin cancer growth is real. I now have to undergo surgery to have it removed,” he mentioned in the video.

The singer was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma on his head.

“Basal cell carcinomas typically appear pink or slightly opalescent, sometimes clear or pearly. They may have some pigment but often do not,” explained Dr. Alix Jude Charles, a dermatologist and member of the American Academy of Dermatology.

These cancers commonly develop in sun-exposed areas of the skin and are usually painless, Charles added.

“It’s the most prevalent form of skin cancer and the most common cancer in mammals. It accounts for more than 90% of skin cancer cases,” Charles stated.

According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, an estimated 3.6 million cases of this type of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States every year.

The other two types of skin cancer are squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma.

Wondering when to have a mole or suspicious area checked by a dermatologist?

“If you notice anything on your skin that seems irregular, like a bump, a mole, a brown smudge, or a black mark that is changing, new, unusual, or painful, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist,” Charles advised.

The American Cancer Society commended Kevin Jonas for his video, emphasizing the significance of early screening.

“It’s always beneficial to have a baseline skin exam with a board-certified dermatologist, especially if you have risk factors,” Charles recommended.

Some risk factors include having experienced at least one sunburn, fair skin, freckles, green or blue eyes, a history of tanning, outdoor work or recreation, numerous moles, or a family history of skin cancer.

“Both basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are highly treatable if detected early. Surgery is often the primary treatment method,” Charles concluded.