Guide Note
According to medical records that were released by the John McCain's campaign on Friday, May 23, 2008, the presidential candidate is cancer free and and in general good health.
Fast Facts
- Is cancer free
- Deemed to be in good health
- Remains at risk for developing new skin cancer
- Visits dermatologist every few months
- Frequently has pre-cancerous skin lesions removed
- February 2008 had early stage squamous cell carcinoma removed
Past Melanoma
McCain has survived melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer three times in the past. Although he remains at risk, his dermatologist reported that he is examined every few months, and he does not have any "worrisome lesions".
In 1993, 2000 and 2002 he had four lesions removed. Three of them, the ones on his head and arms were easy to remove and were in an early stage.
The fourth one was on his left temple. It was thicker than the others, and required a more invasive. The procedure was done in 2000, and this left a long scar down the side of his face. The surgeons had to do this to examine his lymph nodes. The procedure showed no signs of spreading.