Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, has received a diagnosis of malignant melanoma after having a cancerous mole removed during her reconstructive surgery for breast cancer, according to her spokesperson. The duchess, who remains in good spirits, expressed her distress at receiving another cancer diagnosis so soon after her treatment for breast cancer.

The removal and analysis of multiple moles were recommended by Sarah Ferguson's dermatologist while she was undergoing reconstructive surgery following her mastectomy. Out of these moles, one has been identified as cancerous, leading to further investigations to ensure the cancer has been caught in its early stages.

The duchess's spokesperson expressed gratitude towards the medical team that supported her during her treatment, particularly her vigilant dermatologist who detected the illness. Sarah Ferguson believes that her experience emphasizes the importance of regularly checking the size, shape, color, texture, and emergence of new moles, as they can be indicative of melanoma.

Last June, the duchess confirmed her diagnosis of breast cancer following a routine mammogram screening. She underwent a single mastectomy at King Edward VII Hospital in London, a private clinic often utilized by senior members of the royal family.

Sarah Ferguson, who was married to the Duke of York, Prince Andrew, for a decade before their divorce in 1996, continues to share a home with him at Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park. The couple has two daughters, Princess Beatrice, 35, and Princess Eugenie, 33, as well as three grandchildren.

The duchess was last seen in public on Christmas Day, attending a church service in Sandringham with other senior members of the royal family. It is unclear when she will resume her public engagements, given her ongoing medical treatment.

In other health-related news within the royal family, it was announced that the Princess of Wales is expected to remain in the hospital for up to two weeks following a planned surgery. Additionally, the King has disclosed that he will undergo treatment for an enlarged prostate.

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body. Risk factors include exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or sunbeds, age, pale skin, a large number of moles, and a family history of skin cancer. Signs to watch out for include new moles, changes in existing moles, large moles, and moles with uneven shapes or a mix of colors. The NHS advises individuals who notice these symptoms to contact their GP for further evaluation.

Sarah Ferguson's prognosis for her melanoma diagnosis is reported to be positive, according to her spokesperson.