EPA Administrator Emphasizes Skin Cancer Awareness

Lee Zeldin, the head of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, recently shared that he had skin cancer removed from his face, using his experience to highlight the importance of using sunscreen and regular dermatology visits.

In a social media post, he mentioned, “PSA: Wear sunscreen and check your skin. Thank you to the amazing medical team at Walter Reed Medical Center who recently completely removed basal cell carcinoma (BCC) from my face.” He explained that what began as a small pearly lesion on his nose turned out to be BCC after a biopsy.

Zeldin expressed his relief, stating, “I’m glad the cancer is gone.” He described how a dermatologist performed Mohs surgery, a careful method designed to remove all cancerous cells.

He also revealed that a plastic surgeon reconstructed part of his nose post-surgery using cartilage from behind his ear.

Reflecting on his past, Zeldin admitted, “Like many people, I have had many moments in my life where I spent time in the sun without applying sunscreen. That was a mistake.” He urged others to consistently use SPF 30 or higher and get regular skin checks to help prevent skin cancer.

In closing, he encouraged those around him to wear sunscreen and see their dermatologists regularly, emphasizing the importance of early detection.

Despite losing the 2022 New York gubernatorial race to Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, Zeldin previously served four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2015 to 2023.