John Cena has urged everyone to conduct regular cancer screenings as he shares his personal experience and the treatments he underwent.
Cancer is often seen as a daunting and unpredictable disease. Yet, wrestler John Cena is advocating for individuals to perform regular health checks for their own well-being.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Cena discussed his own experience with a skin cancer diagnosis and the fear that accompanied it.
During a visit to the dermatologist, a ‘cancerous spot’ was discovered on his ‘right pec,’ but fortunately, it was removed successfully.
About a year later, Cena had another spot removed and he acknowledges how challenging it is to not let fear lead to ‘the worst-case scenario.’
Currently, Cena is collaborating with Neutrogena to promote the use of sunscreen, but he also emphasizes the importance of checking for cancerous lumps and moles.
The American Cancer Society recommends performing a skin self-exam once a month, particularly for those at a higher risk of skin cancer.
People considered high risk include those with compromised immunity, a history of skin cancer, numerous moles or skin spots, and a strong family history of the disease.
The website provides guidance on how to conduct these checks at home.
To perform the checks, find a well-lit room and use a full-length mirror along with a smaller mirror for a thorough examination.
The society advises: “Check your face, ears, neck, chest, and belly. Women will need to lift their breasts to check the skin underneath.”
“Examine your underarm areas, both sides of your arms, the tops and palms of your hands, in between your fingers, and under your fingernails.”
While seated, check: “The front of your thighs, shins, tops of your feet, in between your toes, and under your toenails.”
Use a hand mirror to inspect the soles of your feet, calves, and the backs of your thighs, checking each leg individually.
“Utilize the hand mirror to examine your buttocks, genital area, lower and upper back, and the back of your neck and ears. Alternatively, use a hand mirror to view your back in a wall mirror.”
“Use a comb or hair dryer to part your hair so you can examine your scalp.”
The cancer society also highlights what to look out for.
These signs include any new, growing, or altering growths, spots, or bumps on the skin, sores that bleed or do not heal after several weeks, and rough or scaly red patches that might crust or bleed.
They also caution against wart-like growths, new or changing moles or spots on the skin in size, shape, or color, and moles with unusual shapes, irregular borders, or varied colors.