Hugh Jackman cleared for skin cancer

() — Australian actor Hugh Jackman has been cleared of skin cancer after undergoing tests for the disease, he announced via Instagram.

“My biopsies came back negative!” he said Wednesday. “Thanks for all the love. I’m sorry!”.

Jackman, who has played Wolverine in the “X-Men” franchise since 2000, revealed earlier this week that he had been tested for skin cancer after a medical check-up and urged his fans to protect themselves from the sun.

While announcing the negative results of his biopsy, he reiterated his call for his supporters to stay out of the sun.

“Remember to use sunscreen with a high SPF level (regardless of the season),” added the 54-year-old actor.

Jackman, also known for his starring roles in “Les Misérables” and “The Greatest Showman,” has been treated for basal cell carcinoma multiple times, revealing in 2013 that a cancerous growth was removed from his nose.

Hugh Jackman recently spoke about his experience having a skin biopsy. (Credit: from The Hugh Jackman/Instagram)

Basal cell carcinoma of the skin is one of the most common cancers in the US, and treatment can be very effective when the cancer is found early.

The most common cause is sun exposure or indoor tanning, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, which adds that using sunscreen daily, avoiding the brightest sunlight and checking your skin monthly can reduce your risk of developing the disease.

“There has been an increase in melanoma appearing in areas not exposed to the sun, such as the armpit, the genital area, and between the toes,” Dr. Arif Kamal, director of patients for the American Society of Cancer Society, told in February. of Cancer. “So it’s important to check out, or have a partner or dermatologist check out, your entire body once a year.”

When checking for skin cancer, it is important to carefully examine all the skin, including the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, between the toes and the buttocks, and in the genital area.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using the A, B, C, D, E method to discuss any worrisome points, and then see a specialist if you have any concerns.

“For those of us here in the northern hemisphere, let’s wear sunscreen. It’s just not worth it (not doing it). It doesn’t matter how much you want a tan. Trust me,” Jackman said in a video earlier this week.

“Put on some sunscreen. Still an amazing time out there, all right. Please be careful.”

‘s Sandee LaMotte contributed to this reporting.