EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin revealed he had a basal cell carcinoma removed from his nose and thanked the medical team at Walter Reed. His dermatologist used Mohs surgery to ensure all cancerous tissue was removed, and a plastic surgeon reconstructed part of his nose with ear cartilage and a local skin flap. Zeldin urged consistent use of SPF 30+ and regular dermatology checks, stressing that early detection matters.
EPA Chief Lee Zeldin Reveals Skin Cancer Removed From His Nose, Urges Sunscreen and Regular Checks
EPA administrator Lee Zeldin reveals he underwent surgery to remove skin cancer from his face
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin announced that he recently had a basal cell carcinoma removed from his nose and used the experience to urge Americans to wear sunscreen and get regular skin checks.
In a post on X, Zeldin thanked the medical team at Walter Reed Medical Center and described how the lesion began. He said the spot started as "a small, pearl-colored, dome-shaped lesion on my nose," and a biopsy confirmed it was basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common form of skin cancer.
Former Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-N.Y., U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to be administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, speaks during his Senate Environment and Public Works confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill on Jan. 16, 2025 in Washington, D.C.
According to Zeldin, his dermatologist treated the cancer using Mohs micrographic surgery, a tissue-sparing technique that removes cancerous layers while preserving healthy skin. After the procedure, a plastic surgeon reconstructed part of his nose using cartilage taken from behind his ear and a local skin flap to restore the area.
PSA: Wear sunscreen and get your skin checked. Early detection matters.
Zeldin said he is relieved to be cancer-free and acknowledged past mistakes in sun protection, encouraging consistent use of SPF 30 or higher and routine dermatology visits. He asked readers to remind friends and family about sun safety and the importance of early diagnosis.
Background: Zeldin represented New York in the U.S. House of Representatives for four terms (2015–2023) and was the Republican nominee in New York's 2022 gubernatorial race.
