Fortnite Star Ninja Reveals Battle with Melanoma at 32: Urges Fans to Prioritize Health
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Renowned US streamer Tyler “Ninja” Blevins recently disclosed his diagnosis of melanoma, a type of skin cancer.
Through a post on X platform, the 32-year-old Fortnite aficionado, boasting a staggering 19 million followers on Twitch, shared that a mole removed from his foot was found to be cancerous.
Additionally, another dark spot on his foot is under scrutiny, and though he remains “shocked,” he expresses gratitude for the early detection of the cancer.
Ninja emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups and urges others to prioritize their health.
Since his resurgence on the streaming platform in 2020, following a brief stint with Microsoft’s rival platform Mixer, Ninja has become synonymous with Twitch.
His prominence in the Fortnite community is such that players can emulate his appearance in the game by purchasing character skins resembling him.
Moreover, his status as a leading figure in the streaming world has propelled him to mainstream recognition, evident in his appearances on shows like The Masked Singer US.
Ninja revealed that his cancer diagnosis came to light during a routine visit to a dermatologist for an annual mole check.
Understanding Melanoma: Risks, Prevention, and Treatment Options
Recounting the discovery of a mole on the bottom of his foot, he stated, “It came back as melanoma, but they are optimistic that we caught it in the early stages.”
According to information provided by the NHS, melanoma is a form of skin cancer that can metastasize to other areas of the body, often attributed to exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun.
Precautionary measures such as sunscreen application and regular reapplication are recommended for sun protection. Individuals with fair skin, numerous moles, or a family history of skin cancer are deemed to be at higher risk.
Surgery remains the primary treatment, while chemotherapy may be employed in cases where the cancer has spread.