• Published: May 13 2025 01:30 PM
  • Last Updated: May 22 2025 06:37 PM

ARD presenter Susanne Klehn faces a second skin cancer diagnosis (basal cell carcinoma), following a previous melanoma battle. Her experience underscores the importance of sun protection and regular skin checks.


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Susanne Klehn Faces Skin Cancer Again: A Story of Courage

Germany's beloved television personality Susanne Klehn is going through what no one should experience twice. The popular ARD "Brisant" presenter recently shared heartbreaking news – she's fighting skin cancer again. As fans across Germany react with concern and support, her story reminds us all how quickly life can change – and why those routine skin checks we often postpone actually matter.

Lightning Strikes Twice

At just 43, Susanne has become all too familiar with words no one wants to hear: "It's cancer." Doctors recently discovered basal cell carcinoma on her face, a type of non-melanoma skin cancer. The diagnosis hit especially hard because this isn't her first battle.

Fifteen years ago, Susanne fought and overcame melanoma – the most aggressive and dangerous form of skin cancer. Now she's facing a different version of a familiar enemy.

"The fear is overwhelming sometimes," she recently shared. "Even though basal cell carcinoma isn't as aggressive as melanoma, the emotional flood brings back everything I felt before. Fighting for my life the first time left scars – not just on my skin, but deep inside me."

  • First Fight: Beat melanoma more than 15 years ago when she was in her twenties.
  • Current Challenge: Basal cell carcinoma discovered on her face.
  • Behind the Smile: Admits to struggling with anxiety and emotional trauma from both diagnoses.

What makes Susanne's story so powerful is her raw honesty. While many public figures might keep health struggles private, she's chosen a different path. Between filming segments and maintaining her busy schedule, she's opened up about the sleepless nights, the worry, and yes – the fear that occasionally overwhelms her. Her transparency has sparked thousands of messages from viewers facing similar battles.

"Sometimes I catch myself touching the spot on my face," she admitted during a recent interview. "It's a strange feeling knowing something dangerous is growing there, even though you can't really feel it working against you."

From Patient to Protector: Her Mission to Save Others

Have you ever had a life-changing experience that completely shifted your priorities? That's what happened to Susanne after her first diagnosis. Her personal nightmare transformed her into one of Germany's most passionate skin cancer awareness advocates.

As an ambassador for Deutsche Krebshilfe (German Cancer Aid), she's traded in victimhood for action. Her mantra of "meiden, kleiden, cremen" (avoid, cover, cream) has become something of a catchphrase among her followers.

  • Her Awareness Campaign: Working with Deutsche Krebshilfe to educate the public about sun safety.
  • Simple But Powerful Advice: Avoid midday sun, cover exposed skin, and apply sunscreen religiously.
  • Early Detection Push: Encourages fans to get suspicious spots checked immediately – not "someday soon."

"I sometimes wonder how many lives might be saved if we took skin checks as seriously as we take getting our hair done," Susanne remarked during a recent awareness event. "Ten minutes with a dermatologist once a year could literally save your life."

Her experience highlights why catching skin cancer early matters so much. When detected in its early stages, the treatment success rate skyrockets. This is particularly relevant for anyone with fair skin, a family history of skin cancer, or those who've spent years soaking up sun without protection.

Finding Light in the Darkness

Despite everything she's enduring, Susanne hasn't lost her trademark smile or determination. In fact, some of her colleagues say her energy on set is more infectious than ever.

"Cancer changes you," she shared recently. "The second time around, I'm scared, yes – but I'm also strangely stronger. I know what lies ahead, I've walked this road before, and I survived."

Her journey continues inspiring countless viewers, particularly those facing their own health challenges. By speaking openly about her treatments, fears, and hopes, she's helping dismantle the silence and stigma that often surrounds cancer diagnoses.

As she navigates treatment while continuing to appear on screens across Germany, Susanne demonstrates that vulnerability and strength aren't opposites – they're companions on the healing journey.

Note: This article draws from public information about Susanne Klehn's experience. For personal medical concerns or skin cancer questions, please consult with healthcare professionals.

Reference: https://www.merkur.de/boulevard/brisant-moderatorin-zum-zweiten-mal-an-krebs-erkrankt-zr-93727849.html

FAQ

Susanne Klehn has been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, a common type of skin cancer, following a previous melanoma diagnosis. Both are serious, but treatable.

Basal cell carcinoma is a slow-growing skin cancer that usually appears on sun-exposed areas. While rarely fatal, it requires treatment to prevent further growth.

Melanoma is a more aggressive form of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.

Sun protection is key! Use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing, seek shade during peak sun hours, and get regular skin checks.

Regular skin checks are recommended, ideally annually, or more frequently if you have a higher risk of skin cancer. Consult your dermatologist.

Look for changes in existing moles or new growths that are asymmetrical, have irregular borders, uneven color, or a diameter greater than 6mm (the 'ABCDEs' of melanoma).

Sun safety involves minimizing exposure to harmful UV rays through sunscreens, protective clothing, and shade to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.

Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates for most skin cancers, particularly melanoma. It's vital to see a dermatologist if you notice any suspicious changes.

Reliable sources include the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, and your dermatologist. They offer detailed information on prevention and early detection.

Absolutely. Her experience underscores the importance of regular skin checks, sun protection, and proactive health management in preventing and detecting skin cancer early.

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