Former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke has undergone another surgery to remove skin cancer from his face. The 44-year-old revealed the news on Instagram, posting a picture of himself after the procedure.
Clarke used the moment to remind people about the dangers of skin cancer and the importance of prevention.
“Skin cancer is real! Especially in Australia. Another one cut out of my nose today. A friendly reminder to get your skin checked. Prevention is better than cure, but in my case, regular check-ups and early detection are key. So grateful that @drbishsoliman_ got it early,” Clarke wrote.
A Long Battle With Skin Cancer
This is not the first time Clarke has faced the disease. He was first diagnosed in 2006 and has since undergone more than a dozen surgeries.
In 2023, he had cancers removed from his forehead and face. A year earlier, doctors treated him for a basal cell carcinoma on his chest. Clarke has openly shared these struggles, aiming to raise awareness among his fans.
Australia’s Skin Cancer Crisis
Clarke’s message carries extra weight because Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Studies show that two in three Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before turning 70.
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Clarke has been working with the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation to spread awareness. Last year, he told Sunrise that he tries to get a full skin check twice a year. His advice echoes what doctors across the country have long stressed: early detection can save lives.
Clarke’s Cricket Legacy
Despite his health battles, Clarke remains one of Australia’s greatest modern cricketers. Between 2003 and 2015, he played 115 Tests, 245 ODIs, and 34 T20s. He scored 8,643 Test runs and nearly 8,000 ODI runs, along with 94 wickets across formats.
Clarke won the World Cup in 2015 and guided Australia to a 5-0 Ashes victory in 2013-14 while serving as captain. He won the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year and ICC Cricketer of the Year titles in 2013 for his exceptional play.
Turning Struggles Into Awareness
Clark is renowned for his graceful batting and astute leadership, and even after retiring, he remains an inspiration. In addition to being personal news, his most recent health report serves as a warning to the public.
Clarke believes that by sharing his story, others will be more vigilant and take skin cancer seriously. His straightforward advice to “have your skin checked” has the potential to save lives.
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