Ninja, one of the most popular esports figures in the world, recently disclosed that he’s battling cancer. The announcement came via his X page, revealing that a routine skin checkup a few weeks back uncovered melanoma. Ninja, who goes by the name Tyler Blevins, says the diagnosis, originating from a harmless mole on his foot, has left him staggering.
However, he’s grateful for catching it early. He said in a post, “I’m still in a bit of shock. I’m grateful to have hope in finding this early, but please take this as a PSA to get skin checkups.” Despite the shock, the 32-year-old continues to stream to his millions of followers without issue.
He recently posted many clips to his Instagram page, showing him laughing and in good spirits while playing Fortnite. Many in the sports world sent well wishes, including Robert Griffin III, who tweeted, “Praying for you, brother.”
Does Ninja’s Cancer Diagnosis Mean a Wake-Up Call for Skin Health?
Despite Ninja’s staggering online presence, his representative did not immediately respond to NBC News’ request for comment. Hailing from the Midwest and spending much of his childhood in Chicago’s suburbs, attending Grayslake Central High School, Ninja’s diagnosis sheds light on skin cancer prevalence.
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According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, skin cancer, particularly melanoma, has seen a rapid increase over the past three decades. Dr. Amy Derick, a dermatologist and medical director of Derick Dermatology, highlighted the trend of concern.
He linked the rise in diagnoses to the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused many to postpone routine checkups. Derick emphasized the importance of early detection and noted that melanoma is highly curable when caught in its initial stages.
Who Is Most at Risk of Melanoma?
Derick noted that while older patients comprise a huge part of skin cancer diagnoses, younger patients should also prioritize screenings, as outcomes for this age group can be unfavorable. The AAD reports that melanoma will affect one in 27 men and one in 40 women in their lifetime.
Women in younger age groups face higher rates than men, while men over 50 exhibit higher rates. The most significant surge in cases is observed in people aged 80 and above. According to the American Cancer Society, although the average age of melanoma diagnoses is 65, melanoma is not uncommon among those under 30.
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The society notes that it is one of the most common cancers in young adults, particularly young women. Invasive melanoma is foreseen to be the fifth most naturally diagnosed cancer in both men and women in 2022, according to the association.
Derick also emphasized that fair-skinned people are susceptible to skin cancer diagnoses due to the protective nature of pigment against sun exposure. Conversely, darker-skinned patients, while less prone to initial diagnoses, often face late-stage diagnoses, resulting in lower survival rates.
For those with darker skin tones, constant monitoring of moles and freckles, with sun protection, is important to minimize skin cancer risks.
Melanoma and Pregnancy: What to Know
During pregnancy, women may notice changes in their skin, including melasma or darkened lines on the abdomen. This usually occurs as estrogen stimulates pigment-producing cells. Derick warned that these same cells can become dangerous in melanoma.
She said, “Early detection is even more critical for pregnant patients. We’ve seen patients who have come in for melanomas during their pregnancy, and it’s important to catch those early because if you do, you can cut it out while pregnant with very little risk to the mother or the child.”
She added, “But if it is to the point where it’s metastasized or is requiring certain treatments, it’s difficult to treat that well while the patient is pregnant.”
What Should You Look for in Skin Cancer Detection?
Experts stress the importance of monitoring any changes or growths on the skin. Remember, early detection is key in skin cancer diagnosis. Derick noted that growing or changing lesions pose the highest risk and must be promptly evaluated.
Characteristics such as asymmetry, dark pigmentation, and symptoms like bleeding or persistent itching need heightened attention. She also noted that skin cancer, particularly melanoma, can even develop in areas that aren’t often exposed to the sun.
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