New York governor says she has skin cancer and will undergo removal procedure

NEW YORK — New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said Thursday that she has been diagnosed with skin cancer and will undergo surgery this week to remove her skin.

The governor told reporters that her doctor discovered basal cell carcinoma on her nose during a routine checkup a few weeks ago. He described it as a “tiny, tiny spot on my nose.”

Hochul, 66, said she will undergo surgery Friday morning.

Basal cell carcinoma is one of the most common forms of skin cancer. It is highly curable, especially if detected early. It is a slow-growing cancer that is usually confined to the surface of the skin. Doctors often remove it through a shallow incision.

Hochul urged people to get regular medical check-ups.