Paolo Ascierto, Director of the Department of Melanoma at Cancer Immunotherapy and Development Therapeutics, shared on LinkedIn:
“Wishing Gordon Ramsay a speedy recovery.
His recent announcement regarding the diagnosis and surgical removal of a basal cell carcinoma (a non-melanoma form of skin cancer) is a powerful example of raising public awareness. Ramsay thanked the medical team at The Skin Associates for their prompt intervention and, with his usual humor, reminded his followers:
‘Please don’t forget your sunscreen this weekend … I promise you it’s not a facelift! I’d need a refund.’
It is admirable when a public figure shares such a scientifically grounded message — especially at a time when articles questioning the safety of sunscreens, and even suggesting they may be more harmful than the sun itself, continue to circulate.
Let’s clarify:
- The sun is not our enemy — ultraviolet (UV) radiation is. Over time, UV exposure can damage the DNA of skin cells and trigger carcinomas, including the basal cell carcinoma Ramsay had removed from beneath his left ear.
The risk is particularly high during the central hours of the day, when UV penetration reaches its peak – typically between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
- Sunscreens do not cause cancer. On the contrary, they are essential tools to reduce UV exposure. Criticism often directed at some ingredients is not supported by human clinical evidence linking them to carcinogenic effects.
- The association between chronic UV exposure and the development of basal cell carcinoma is well documented. This cancer usually appears in exposed areas (face, neck), grows slowly, and rarely metastasizes, but if untreated can cause significant local damage. In these locations, surgical removal may require invasive procedures with notable aesthetic implications — yet another reason to emphasize the importance of primary prevention through sun protection.”
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