Sarah Ferguson issues urgent health warning as Duchess of York admits she is 'not out of the woods yet'

The mother-of-two shared that her "outlook is good", although she acknowledges she will require ongoing checks for the rest of her life.

Sarah disclosed her initial fear upon receiving her double diagnosis, worrying it was a "death sentence".

But she credited her recent check-ups and medical interventions with saving her life.

Fergie was diagnosed with malignant melanoma, a form of skin cancer, in January 2024, just a year after her breast cancer diagnosis.

Sarah told The Sun: "When you're told you have cancer, you can't help thinking it's a death sentence.

"Your mind goes to the darkest places and you wonder what lies ahead and how you are going to share the news with your family.

"I had almost missed the appointment as I couldn't face a journey into central London on a hot summer's day and thought I would put it off.

"It was only when I mentioned this by chance to my sister Jane, who had called me from her home in Australia, that she went into bossy older sibling mode and insisted I went. That check-up, and the treatment I underwent, saved my life."

Sarah is now urging others to get screened and not put off medical appointments.

She added: "I'm living proof of the importance of never skipping screening appointments and always getting symptoms checked out promptly."

Sarah is convinced her condition was caused by the fact she was a fair-skinned youngster in the 1970s, when the importance of using sun cream was not as encouraged as it is today.

Giving an update on her health, Sarah confirmed she has undergone a single mastectomy with breast reconstruction, while the malignant melanoma and the skin nearby were excised and other moles tested for any signs of cancer.

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She continued: "It has been a difficult period, and I’m not out of the woods.

"With the love and support of my family, especially my girls Beatrice and Eugenie, I have stayed positive and been informed that my outlook is good.

"I’ve been told by my physicians that I shouldn’t use the phrase “cancer free”, but treatment has been successful and tests show there has been no spread or recurrence.

"I’m reconciled to the fact that I will have to have checks for the rest of my life. I’m now determined to do whatever I can to raise awareness by sharing my experience."

Sarah announced she is "honoured" to become patron of the charity Prevent Breast Cancer, and is visiting the site in Manchester later today.