The Left Lane
Spotlight: skin cancer

President George W. Bush said exposure to strong Texas sun is to blame for his skin growths. Advertiser library photo

Bush had several skin growths removed two weeks ago with liquid nitrogen — his second treatment in 2001. Doctors say exposure to the strong Texas sun is to blame for the president's skin spots, including two potentially cancerous growths, clinically known as actinic keratoses, on his cheeks. Such growths can lead to skin cancer if left untreated. He also has had two less-serious growths, known as seborrheic keratoses, removed from his forehead and temple.

Actinic keratosis is the most common form of skin precancer, occurring in more than 5 million Americans. Growths are likely to appear as crusty, scaly or crumbly bumps on parts of the body exposed to the sun. The Texas sun isn't nearly as intense as Hawai'i's. Regular checkups and use of sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher are recommended.