WWE star John Cena reveals shocking two-time skin cancer diagnosis, says sunscreen is non-negotiable; doctors outline early signs

Did you know that the WWE legend John Cena was diagnosed with skin cancer? Well, recently, John Cena, actor and WWE icon, has opened up about his skin cancer diagnosis. The WWE star, to make people aware of the importance of wearing sunscreen, shared his own story.

According to People, the 47-year-old American actor and professional wrestler grew up in Massachusetts in the 1970s and 80s and never knew the concept of wearing sunscreen.

But later, when he moved to Florida, 'he fell in love with the sun' but 'neglected' to protect his skin and use sunscreen.

When John Cena was diagnosed with skin cancer

While revealing this, he said that he was stubborn and he didn't want to have a routine, and he thought the problem would never affect him. "And it¡¯s one of those things where I had a ton of exposure with minimal protection, and it caught up with me,¡± said Cena.

Well, the People report went on to highlight that it was during one of his routine check-ups that he discovered that he had a cancerous spot removed from his right pec. ¡°It wasn¡¯t until I went to a dermatologist and got a skin checkup and had a cancerous spot removed from my right pec,¡± John Cena said, adding, ¡°A year later I went back and had another spot removed close to my right shoulder¡­ It shows up like a white polka dot on the side of my chest and my shoulder. If you watch WWE, you¡¯ll be able to see them,¡± he said.

Credit: X

Importance of sunscreen: Know why it is a must

After the diagnosis, Cena is also now the face of a sunscreen brand with SPF 70. In the report, he also quoted that after the removal of his first cancerous spot on Cena's chest, there was another. He said, If you watch WWE, you will be able to see them.

Skin cancer came as a shock to John Cena, but what is the connection between skin cancer and sunscreen? ¡°Failure to use sunscreen can raise the risk of skin cancer. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can harm the DNA in skin cells, causing mutations that can lead to skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma,¡± says Dr.Shrey Srivastava, Senior Consultant-Internal Medicine, Sharda Hospital.

Extended and unguarded sun exposure to the sun's UV rays adds up over time and increases the risk considerably. ¡°UV rays produce sunburns and premature ageing and compromise the skin's natural defences, making it more vulnerable to cancer,¡± adds Dr. Srivastava.

Sunscreen | Credit: Pexels

Symptoms of skin cancer

Sunscreen works as a shield, filtering and deflecting these cancer-causing rays, and prevents cell damage. Daily use of sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection (UVA and UVB) can lower the risk of skin cancer and other sun-induced skin problems.

Signs of skin cancer usually involve an alteration in the appearance of moles or skin lesions. ¡°Alteration may involve uneven edges, colour changes, or enlargement. Itchiness, bleeding, or crust formation surrounding a mole might also be signs of skin cancer. The basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma are the most common forms, and melanoma is the most lethal,¡± explains Dr. Shitij Goel, HOD-Dermatology, Sharda Hospital.

Preventive tips for skin cancer

Preventive advice includes frequent use of sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF, Dr. Goel suggests, ¡°Protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses, and staying in the shade, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.. Avoid tanning beds, and check your skin frequently for strange moles or changes, getting medical attention if any are found.¡±

Annual check-ups with a dermatologist are also strongly suggested for early diagnosis.

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